HOUSTON – Today, the Houston Texans announced that S Jalen Pitre is the team’s nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide. Considered the league’s most prestigious honor, the award recognizes players who excel on the field and demonstrate a steadfast commitment to creating a positive impact beyond the game.
“Jalen Pitre is a shining example of an exceptional leader on and off the field,” Houston Texans Chair and CEO Cal McNair said. “As a hometown player, we’re so proud of the impact he’s had in our community and look forward to his continued commitment to H-Town for many years to come. Jalen is incredibly deserving of this honor and we know how much this means to him.”
In his third season with the Texans, Pitre continues to show up for his hometown community. This year, he remains a devoted advocate for Kids’ Meals, a local nonprofit organization that delivers free, healthy meals year-round directly to the homes of hungry preschool-aged children in an effort to end childhood hunger. Last season, Pitre teamed up with Kids’ Meals to lead the “Feed 5 More” campaign that continues today. Through $5 incremental, crowd-sourced donations, his goal is to raise funds to feed 55,555 kids.
Pitre also serves as a sponsor in the Texans’ Community Huddle Ticket Program this season, which gives people who may not otherwise have a chance to attend an NFL game the opportunity to have a unique and special gameday experience. Every home game, the Stafford Cobras, the youth football team Pitre played on growing up, are treated to tickets, food vouchers and parking passes thanks to his generosity.
“My parents always taught me that if anyone was in need and we had the means that we should lend a helping hand,” Pitre said. “I’m blessed to be in this position now, and it’s my duty to help and shed light on others who need it. I have a ton of gratitude and appreciation that I was chosen as a nominee for this award. I hope I can continue to inspire and encourage people to help others as much as they can.”