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

NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year

New England Patriots

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Hunter Henry

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Position College Years in the NFL
Tight End Arkansas 10

Excellence on the Field:

Henry has consistently demonstrated excellence on the field throughout his Patriots career, serving as a dependable and dynamic presence in the offense. Now in his 10th season, Henry currently ranks fifth among active tight ends in touchdowns and sixth overall in both receptions and receiving yards in the NFL. Since joining New England in 2021, Henry has been a reliable target in the passing game, showcasing strong hands, precise route-running, and a knack for making clutch catches in critical moments. Beyond his receiving skills, Henry's leadership and football IQ have made him a cornerstone of the Patriots' locker room, having been voted a team captain four times in five seasons. His ability to block effectively and adapt to various offensive schemes speaks to his versatility and team-first mentality. Whether lining up in-line, in the slot, or split wide, Henry brings consistency, toughness, and professionalism to every snap. His durability and work ethic have earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike, and his performance has remained steady even amid changes at quarterback, offensive coordinator and head coach. Henry's on-field excellence is marked not only by his statistics, but by his impact on the team's culture and his role as a leader both on and off the field.

Dedication & Commitment to Community Efforts This Year:

In 2025, Henry continues to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to community service, deepening his impact across New England and beyond through hands-on engagement, advocacy, and leadership. His calendar has been filled with meaningful events that reflect his love for children, support for families, and desire to help underserved communities. Over the summer, Henry and his wife, Parker, traveled to Kenya with International Justice Mission, expanding their commitment to their mission internationally. Henry kicked off the year with his signature Bike Giveaway, hosting and personally distributing bikes to local youth and reinforcing his belief in empowering kids through mobility and joy. He followed this with a visit to Chittick Elementary School, where he spent time reading to students and encouraging them to dream big. His presence wasn't just symbolic; it was intentional, personal, and inspiring. Throughout the summer, Henry participated in the BedZone Bash, helping provide beds and bedding to children in need, and joined the Patriots' Special Olympics event, celebrating athletes of all abilities with enthusiasm and respect. He also supported the Communities for People Kicks for Kids sneaker event, ensuring children had access to quality footwear as they head back to school. Hunter's commitment extended into the fall, where he was a key figure at the Patriots Day of Pampering, offering support and kindness to women overcoming adversity. Henry and Parker hosted their inaugural Rally for Rescue ping pong event in collaboration with the International Justice Mission to raise money for victims of human trafficking across the globe. The event raised over $316K and counting that will go towards the rescue, freedom and support of those affected. His continued involvement in My Cause My Cleats, this year supporting International Justice Mission, demonstrates his global perspective and dedication to uplifting vulnerable children. Beyond scheduled events, Henry regularly stopped by the Patriots' Training Camp Foundation tent to connect with guests, showing that service isn't just about appearances; it's about presence. His recognition as the 2025 Ron Burton Award recipient further affirms his embodiment of character, leadership, and community spirit. Henry's 2025 efforts reflect a lifestyle of giving, not just a checklist of appearances. His consistency, humility, and genuine care make him a powerful force for good and a worthy nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.

Dedication & Commitment to Community Efforts in Years Past:

Henry has demonstrated unwavering dedication to community service throughout his Patriots tenure, consistently showing up for others with humility, compassion, and purpose. His commitment spans years and reflects a deeply rooted belief in using his platform to uplift those in need. Since arriving in New England in 2021, Henry has actively participated in a wide range of charitable initiatives. That year, he chose International Justice Mission for My Cause My Cleats, raising awareness for global anti-trafficking efforts. He continued this support in 2023, and in 2024, he expanded his advocacy by representing Compassion International, emphasizing child sponsorship and poverty alleviation. Henry's impact is especially felt among children and families. He's participated in multiple bike giveaways at Patriots Training Camp, ensuring kids have access to safe, fun transportation. His presence at annual Children's Halloween Parties, Thanksgiving in a Basket events, and Fantasy Camp brings joy and stability to families facing hardship. He's also visited the Perkins School for the Blind and Chittick Elementary, engaging with students and encouraging their growth. In 2025 alone, Henry participated in the BedZone Bash, Special Olympics, Communities for People's Kicks for Kids, and the Rally for Rescue ping pong fundraiser. He's a regular visitor to the Training Camp Foundation tent, taking time to connect with guests and share his gratitude. His involvement in the annual Patriots Day of Pampering demonstrates his commitment to restoring dignity and confidence to women overcoming adversity. Henry's consistency year after year, across diverse causes, speaks volumes. He doesn't just show up, he builds relationships, listens, and leads with heart. His recognition as the 2025 Ron Burton Award winner and the Patriots' 2024 Bart Starr Award nominee further affirms his character and legacy of service. Henry embodies the spirit of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award through sustained, meaningful action that transforms lives.

Positive Character & a Lifestyle of Giving Back:

Henry exemplifies consistency in positive character and a lifestyle of giving back through his unwavering commitment to service, humility, and leadership both on and off the field. Since joining the Patriots in 2021, Henry has been a steady presence in the community, participating in dozens of charitable events year after year, not out of obligation, but out of genuine care. His approach to service is intentional and personal. Whether he's donating bikes to children, visiting schools, supporting Special Olympics athletes, or volunteering to assist families in need during the team's annual Thanksgiving in a Basket giveaway, Henry shows up with empathy, respect, and a desire to connect. He doesn't just attend events, he engages, listens, and builds relationships. His repeated involvement in My Cause My Cleats, supporting organizations like International Justice Mission and Compassion International, reflects his long-term commitment to justice and child advocacy. Henry's character is further reflected in his leadership within the Patriots organization. He was honored as the team's 2024 Bart Starr Award nominee and received the 2025 Ron Burton Award, both recognizing integrity, faith, and service. Teammates and staff consistently praise his professionalism, kindness, and quiet strength and his teammates have selected him as a team captain in four of his five seasons with the team. Henry lives a life rooted in purpose. His consistency in giving back, across seasons, causes, and communities, makes him a role model for athletes and a beacon of hope for those he serves.

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