Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson has been named one of three finalists for the 15th annual Salute to Service Award, the NFL and USAA announced on Thursday.
Ferguson is being recognized for his exceptional efforts to honor and support members of the military community. Since being drafted by the Cowboys in 2022, Ferguson has worked to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and families during Salute to Service Week and throughout the year.
“It is humbling to be recognized like this in relation to honoring our veterans and service members,” said Ferguson in a statement.
“Having the privilege to salute them and amplify the core values they represent to others is something that inspires me. I am deeply grateful for their service and the sacrifices they have made that benefit all of us.”
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Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones, Sr. and San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey are the other two finalists.
The Salute to Service Award winner will be recognized at NFL Honors on February 5 during Super Bowl LX in San Francisco.
“We are incredibly proud of Jake for being recognized as a finalist for the Salute to Service Award,” said Cowboys Chief Brand Officer and Co-Owner Charlotte Jones in a statement.
“His dedication to honoring and connecting with service members, veterans and their families through the National Medal of Honor Museum and the NFL Character Playbook Salute to Service Events truly exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and commitment both on and off the field.”
For the past 15 seasons, the Salute to Service Award presented by USAA has been an integral part of the NFL’s year-round commitment to recognize the military and veteran community.
As the presenting sponsor of the award, USAA will contribute $25,000 in the recipient’s name to official aid societies representing all U.S. military branches. The NFL Foundation will match USAA’s contribution by donating an additional $25,000 to the recipient’s military non-profit charity of choice.
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