Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning was named the offensive captain for USA Football's 2013 All-Fundamentals Team following a national fan vote conducted throughout January.
The fifth annual USA Football All-Fundamentals Team, which honors 26 NFL players -- 11 offense, 11 defense and four special teams -- recognizes NFL players who exhibit exemplary football techniques for youth players to emulate. Playing fundamentally sound football fosters better on-field performance and inherent safety benefits.
Votes were cast via www.usafootball.com/all-fundamentals-team to determine the team's three captains -- one for each phase of the game. Joining Manning as captains are Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Kyle Williams (defense) and Philadelphia Eagles long snapper Jon Dorenbos (special teams).
Manning excels in his ability to read defenses, and that comes from keeping his head up and eyes downfield before and -- most importantly -- after the snap. With a proper grip on the ball and strong footwork, he delivers to the open receiver.
By being voted a captain, Dorenbos, Manning and Williams each will receive an equipment grant valued at $3,000 from USA Football to donate to the youth or high school football programs of their choice. USA Football is the official youth football development partner of the Broncos, the NFL and each of the league's other 31 teams.
"Football never stands still, yet strong fundamentals are timeless," said Carl Peterson, USA Football's chairman and longtime NFL executive, who helped select the team. "Peyton has demonstrated exemplary fundamentals throughout his career. We're proud to recognize him as an All-Fundamentals Team captain."
Employing core football fundamentals advances a youth player's performance and safety, particularly in the areas of blocking and tackling. USA Football has educated more than 100,000 youth football coaches in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., through its online courses and single-day coaching clinics. Approximately 3 million American children age 6-14 play organized tackle football, placing it among the country's most popular youth sports.
-- NFL Communications