On the field, Jimmy Graham made an impact almost immediately. He scored four touchdowns in the Bears’ first five games, proving to be an efficient red-zone option for an offense that struggled to get anything form the tight end position last year.
Off of it, Graham quickly started giving back to his new community. And because of his efforts, he was named the Chicago Bears’ nominee for the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award:
I’m extremely grateful and humbled by the nomination. What a group of guys to be a part of with the present nominees and the past winners, especially Walter Payton. I hope a true light is shined on the foundations and organizations giving efforts in our local communities. Thank U pic.twitter.com/wJRAmlc8Yv
— Jimmy Graham (@TheJimmyGraham) December 10, 2020
And as one would expect, Jarrett Payton shared a message for Graham upon the Bears’ revealing of their Walter Payton Man of the Year Award recipient:
The #WPMOY award is an honor near & dear to our family.@paytonsun shares a special message for @TheJimmyGraham. 🧡 pic.twitter.com/BN0tyA261s
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) December 10, 2020
Graham told the Bears’ official site that one of his priorities upon signing with the Bears was finding a charitable cause that needed help. His pursuit of a charitable cause led him to find Ignite. The organization helps young people experiencing homelessness on their journeys toward a better future. You can learn more about Ignite here.
“I signed with the Bears right when the pandemic hit,” Graham said. “I just wanted to make sure the first thing I did here was to help the community.”
That’s a noble effort by Graham to give back to Chicago, in addition to his other causes. Graham also earned the Bears’ Salute to Service Award nominee, as presented by USAA. The Jimmy Graham Foundation does plenty of work to give back to those who have served. As someone with close friends and family who have served, it’s always good to acknowledge, recognize, and give back to those who sacrifice their lives so we can live ours.
So keep up the good work off the field, Mr. Graham. People surely appreciate your help.