Russell Wilson has been named the 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year in recognition of his COVID-19 relief donations and his founding of a charter school, among other charitable efforts.

"The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, to me, represents excellence, not just on the field, but more importantly off the field," Wilson told the Seahawks' website. "In life, we're granted the opportunity to have an impact, no matter what sphere of influence we're around. Walter Payton was one of the greatest examples of what he was able to do not just on the field, but more important off the field to give back and to serve and to love and to care. For me, to be able to be even mentioned with a name like Walter Payton is one of the greatest blessings I could ever have and one of the greatest honors you could ever have."

The Wilsons donated 1 million meals to Feeding America and Food Lifeline early in March to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Seahawks, the Wilsons then partnered with Wheels Up to create the Meals Up campaign, "which raised the equivalent of more than 50 million meals." The Why Not You Foundation helped expand the Ride United program to deliver food and supplies to vulnerable populations in 175 communities throughout the country, according to the team.

Wilson has visited the Seattle Children's hospital almost every Tuesday since his rookie season in 2012, but he began making virtual visits this year due to COVID-19.

"For me personally, 2020 really changed my perspective," Wilson said, according to the Seahawks. "I've always thought about others and that's always something that's been important to Ciara and me, but when you realize that so many people every day can be affected in so many different ways, it was so important that we give back. It felt like God was calling on us to do something, calling on us to use our resources, use our networks of relationships and such to come together and really try to make a difference. Ultimately it made me think about my kids, that I pray that this isn't them one day, so that's why we really tried to step up and make a difference in 2020."