Houston Texans long snapper Jon Weeks, a fixture on the team since 2010, has been named the Texans’ Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee for 2023. Weeks, an undrafted free agent who has remained with the Texans through various coaching changes and quarterback rotations, is a consistent presence in the team, particularly known for his flawless long snapping on punts and kicks.
Despite being recognized for his on-field excellence with Pro Bowl selections, this nomination acknowledges his impactful off-field contributions.
Texans Chairman and CEO Cal McNair praised Weeks as a leader who sets an example both on the team and in the community. McNair emphasized Weeks’ profound impact over the past decade and expressed pride in his well-deserved nomination for the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
On the field, Weeks holds the distinction of being the only player since 2010 to snap on every extra point, field goal, or punt for the Texans. With a franchise-record 222 consecutive games played, he stands as the longest-tenured player in Texans history.
Off the field, Weeks has actively engaged in community initiatives, participating in the Houston Texans Community Huddle Ticket Program and annually visiting Texas Children’s to bring Thanksgiving dinner to patients in the hospital’s Heart Center alongside his teammates.
One of Weeks’ notable contributions to the community is his involvement in an annual holiday shopping spree for 25 kids, organized in collaboration with Child Advocates. This event, which recently took place, reflects Weeks’ commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.
Expressing gratitude for the nomination, Weeks highlighted the influence of his upbringing, with his family instilling the belief that those in a position to contribute to others’ well-being bear a responsibility to do so.
He expressed a desire for people to remember him not only as a good teammate but also as a person who cared about making Houston a better place.
As part of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, all 32 nominees, including Weeks, will receive up to a $55,000 donation in their name to a charity of their choice. The award winner, to be announced during NFL Honors on February 8, will receive a $250,000 donation for their chosen charity. Past recipients include former Texans defensive end J.J. Watt, recognized in 2017 for his efforts in fundraising for Hurricane Harvey recovery.
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