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NFL Man of the Year Team Winners 2025 | Jets | NFL.com

NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year

New York Jets

20250611-JETS Girls Flag Practice Game-76

Quincy Williams

NEW YORK JETS

Position College Years in the NFL
Linebacker Murray State 7

Excellence on the Field:

Williams joined the New York Jets in 2021 and quickly became a defensive mainstay, known for his sideline-to-sideline speed, hard-hitting tackles, and relentless energy. That season, he posted 110 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to disrupt plays and energize the defense. Williams continued his upward trajectory in 2022, recording 106 tackles, 3 sacks, and 12 tackles for loss. His breakout came in 2023, when he delivered a career-best performance with 139 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 10 pass deflections, and his first career interception. These standout numbers earned him First-Team All-Pro honors, placing him among the league's elite defenders. In October 2023, Williams was named AFC Defensive Player of the Month, a testament to his consistency and impact. By early 2024, Williams had amassed 530 career tackles, 9 sacks, 10 forced fumbles, and 21 pass deflections. His performance secured his future as a cornerstone of the team's defense. Williams is widely regarded as one of the most instinctive and explosive linebackers in the league today. His ability to read plays and deliver game-changing hits makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses and a leader in the Jets' locker room.

Dedication & Commitment to Community Efforts This Year:

This year, Williams has deepened his impact through innovative, inclusive, and hands-on community initiatives that reflect both his values and his vision for change. Williams visited five children that have undergone cancer treatment to invite them to the Jets Crucial Catch game as honorary captains. In May of this year, Willliams helped his inaugural football camp at Miles College in Birmingham, AL. This free camp welcomed over 200 youth and partnered with key community organizations including Birmingham City Schools and the Birmingham Housing Authority. The event provided mentorship, athletic training, and inspiration, creating a memorable experience for young participants and reinforcing Williams' dedication to empowering underserved communities. On October 28, 2025, in partnership with the American Cancer Society of New Jersey, Williams hosted a Pilates-themed wellness day featuring a matcha cart, free gifting, and uplifting activities for breast cancer survivors. This event not only celebrated resilience but also promoted holistic healing and community support. William's plans additional community events around the holidays, supporting the Quincy Williams Foundation and its "100 Reasons Why" Campaign in Birmingham, AL. This initiative will bring holiday cheer and essential resources to families in need, continuing his tradition of meaningful seasonal outreach.

Dedication & Commitment to Community Efforts in Years Past:

Williams has consistently exemplified a deep commitment to uplifting communities through both financial support and hands-on involvement. Over the years, his impact has spanned diverse causes and touched lives across multiple states. He has provided ongoing financial support to help raise awareness and improve care for underserved populations affected by Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, his support for breast cancer survivors is both financial and personal. He partners annually with The American Cancer Society (ACS) in New Jersey to host a celebration day honoring survivors, creating a space of hope and recognition. Through the Jets Unified Flag Football event with the Special Olympics, Williams consistently attends events hosted by the Jets that provide students with and without disabilities the opportunity to play flag football together. His dedication to youth development is evident through both financial contributions and direct mentorship, helping guide young individuals toward brighter futures. Each holiday season, Williams ensures underprivileged families receive gifts and essentials, bringing joy and relief to those in need within his hometown community. In March 2023, he visited Brookwood Elementary twice to read to students and encourage literacy, demonstrating his belief in the power of education and positive role models. Also in 2023, Williams volunteered with Blessings in a Backpack at Lambert High School to help combat food insecurity, ensuring children had access to meals over the weekend.

Positive Character & a Lifestyle of Giving Back:

Williams exemplifies unwavering positive character both on and off the field. His infectious energy, uplifting spirit, and genuine smile leave a lasting impression on everyone he encounters. Guided by a deep sense of purpose, Williams recognizes the influence he holds and uses every opportunity, whether speaking, training, or simply being present, to inspire those around him. He leads with humility and intention, never seeking applause or recognition, but rather acting from a place of authenticity and heart. Even in his downtime, Williams finds meaningful ways to connect with communities. While training in South Florida, he often engages with local youth at community pools, encouraging them through active play and mentorship, an extension of his background as a former Junior Olympian in swimming. His actions reflect a belief that character is defined by what one does when no one is watching, and Williams lives that truth daily. Williams' commitment to giving back is both consistent and multifaceted. He prioritizes his hometown of Birmingham, AL and his professional base in NJ/NY, yet his outreach extends wherever he travels. His contributions go far beyond financial support; he gives his time, energy, and full presence to every cause he supports. Williams never commits halfway, he shows up fully, embodying the values of service and community. Financially, Williams contributes generously to numerous organizations and families, far exceeding expectations. He views his blessings as tools to uplift others, whether through donations, gifts, mentorship, or simply sharing joy. His lifestyle is a testament to the power of intentional giving and the impact of showing up with purpose. Williams doesn't just talk about making a difference, he lives it, consistently and wholeheartedly.

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