History of the NFL Man of the Year Award

This site was made to celebrate the good guys in sports. It is important to recognize people for doing the right thing and acting the right way. That is what the NFL Man of the Year is supposed to do with some special NFL football players. This post will acknowledge all those that have won this award during this century, share some information about each individual and link their charities if you want to know more about them. Heck, you may even want to donate to one of these excellent organizations.

The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award is presented each year and it honors players for work on and off the field. It was named after Walter Payton starting in 2000, prior to that it was just the NFL Man of the Year. Let's look back at these great players who are better people.

2019 NFL Man of the Year

Calais Campbell

DE Jacksonville Jaguars

Campbell is an active player since 2008, he was traded to the Ravens this offseason
5x Pro Bowler
3x All-Pro
Campbell has 2 Jaguars team records
Started CRC Foundation to teach critical life skills to young people

2018 NFL Man of the Year

Chris Long

DE Philadelphia Eagles

Played from 2008-2018

2x Super Bowl Champion

2007 ACC Defensive Player of the Year

Raised 1.3 Million in 2017 for charity through Pledge 10 for tomorrow.

With his Chris Long Foundation, Long tries to turn obstacles into opportunities, including helping people during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

2017 NFL Man of the Year

JJ Watt

DE Houston Texans

2011-Present

5x Pro Bowler

5x 1st Team All-Pro

3x Defensive Player of the Year

3 Texan franchise records

Raised 37 million for victims of Hurricane Harvey including donating 100,000 himself

President of Justin J. Watt Foundation which provides after school opportunities to children

2016 NFL Man of the Year (Tie)

Eli Manning 

QB New York Giants

2004-2019

2x Super Bowl MVP

4x Pro Bowler

Works with American Red Cross, Guiding Eyes for the Blind, March of Dimes, and more

Started Eli and Abby Manning's Children's Clinics

https://www.umc.edu/Childrens/Eli-Manning-Childrens-Clinics/Eli-Manning-Childrens-Clinics.html

2016 NFL Man of the Year (Tie)

Larry Fitzgerald

WR Arizona Cardinals

Fitzgerald is an active receiver for the Cardinals and has played since 2004

Fitzgerald is a minority owner of the Phoenix Suns

11x Pro Bowler

3x All-Pro

2x NFL reception leader

2x NFL receiving TDs leader

17,083 career receiving yards

120 career receiving TDs

2003 Heisman runner up at Pittsburgh

Holds 25 NFL records and more than 40 Cardinals franchise records

Fitzgerald has numerous charity initiatives led by his first down fund

Larry's First Down Fund is designed to promote reading proficiency and technology access for K-12 youth and support efforts to prevent and cure breast cancer.

Fitzgerald has long been the NFL spokesperson for the fight against cancer.

2015 NFL Man of the Year

Anquan Boldin

WR San Francisco 49ers

Boldin played from 2003-2017 in the NFL

3x Pro Bowler

Super Bowl Champion

National Champion 1999

Boldin attended Florida State University and was the 3rd Seminole to win the NFL Man of the Year Award.
Boldin had 13,779 career receiving yards
Boldin had 82 career receiving touchdowns
He has 5 NFL receiving records and 3 more records for the Cardinals along with one additional Ravens receiving record
Won the award for work with the Q81 Foundation
The Q81 Foundation "is dedicated to expanding the educational and life opportunities of underprivileged children."

2014 NFL Man of the Year

Thomas Davis

LB Carolina Panthers

2005-Present

Davis signed with the Washington Redskins in 2020

Recovered from 3 major ACL tears

3x Pro Bowler

2x All-Pro

Founded Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation TDDDF

TDDDF aims to educate, empower, and defend dreams of underprivileged families

2013 NFL Man of the Year

Charles Tillman

DB Chicago Bears

2003-2015

2x Pro Bowler

1x All-Pro

3x Brian Piccolo Award

Tillman's Cornerstone Foundation helps improve lives of critically and chronically ill children

Charles Tillman Cornerstone Foundation

2012 NFL Man of the Year

Jason Witten

TE Dallas Cowboys

2003-2017, 2019-Present

11x Pro Bowler

4x All-Pro

Jason Witten's Score Foundation helps victims of domestic violence

https://jasonwitten82.com/foundation/

2011 NFL Man of the Year

Matt Birk

C Baltimore Ravens

1998-2012

6x Pro Bowler

2x All-Pro

Super Bowl Champion

6x Vikings Man of the Year

Named 6th smartest athlete by Sporting News in 2010

Established HIKE foundation which aims to impact lives of at-risk children

HIKE Foundation

2010 NFL Man of the Year

Madieu Williams

S Minnesota Vikings

2004-2012

Madieu Williams Foundation focuses on health and wellness

Madieu Williams Foundation

2009 NFL Man of the Year

Brian Waters

G Kansas City Chiefs

1993-2013
6x Pro Bowl
3x All-Pro
The Brian Waters 54 Foundation helps underprivileged kids. Unfortunately, I could not find a link.

2008 NFL Man of the Year

Kurt Warner 

QB Arizona Cardinals

1994-2009

Hall of Famer

2x NFL  MVP

Super Bowl MVP

4x Pro Bowl

2x All-Pro

10 NFL Passing Records and shares several other records

Founded First Things First Foundation which pays for a week long trip to Walt Disney World for dozens of kids each year

First Things First

2007 NFL Man of the Year

Jason Taylor

DE Miami Dolphins

1997-2011

6x Pro Bowler

4x All-Pro

2006 NFL Defensive Player of the Year

The Jason Taylor Foundation Assists South Florida Children in need

Jason Taylor Foundation

2006 NFL Man of the Year (tie)

Drew Brees

QB New Orleans Saints

2001-Present

13 Time Pro Bowler

Super Bowl Champion

5x All-Pro

2010 SI Sportsman of Year

7x NFL Passing Leader

10 major NFL records including most passing yards and touchdowns all-time

Brees really helped reinvigorate New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina

The Brees Dream Foundation aims to improve the life of cancer patients

http://drewbrees.com/

2006 NFL Man of the Year (tie)

LaDanian Tomlinson

RB San Diego Chargers

2001-2011

Hall of Famer

5x Pro Bowl

6x All-Pro

#21 retired by Chargers

2006 NFL MVP

Numerous NFL Rushing Records

His charity is called Team America and aims to lead the country to a new standard of tolerance

2005 NFL Man of the Year

Peyton Manning

QB Indianapolis Colts

1998-2015

14x Pro Bowler

10x All-Pro

5x NFL MVP

Numerous NFL Passing Records

Assisted with Hurricane Katrina relief with brother Eli

The Peyback Foundation aims for future success of disadvantaged youth

2004 NFL Man of the Year

Warrick Dunn

RB Atlanta Falcons

1997-2001

3x Pro Bowler 1997 Rookie of the Year

Atlanta Falcons ring of honor

1993 National Champion with Florida State

3x First Team All-ACC

Dunn challenged NFL players to donate $5,000 to Hurricane Katrina relief and raised 5 million dollars

Founded Athletes For Hope with several professional athletes to help people get involved in charitable causes.

In October, Warrick Dunn helped deliver his 173rd home to a single parent through his Home for the Holidays program

One of the recipients of the Home for the Holidays program was Texan QB Deshaun Watson's mother

2003 NFL Man of the Year

Will Shields

G Kansas City Chiefs

1993-2006

Hall of Famer

12x Pro Bowler

7x All-Pro

Founded Will 2 Succeed which aims to help those with no access to aid.

2002 NFL Man of the Year

Troy Vincent 

CB Philadelphia Eagles

1992-2006

5x Pro Bowler

2x All-Pro

National Advocate for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault

Love Thy Neighbor Community Development and Opportunity Corporation wants to empower people to build healthier communities.

2001 NFL Man of the Year

Jerome Bettis

RB Pittsburgh Steelers

1993-2005

Hall of Famer

Super Bowl Champion

6x Pro Bowler

3x All-Pro

The Bus Stops Here Foundation aims to improve life for underprivileged youth

2000 NFL Man of the Year (tie)

Derrick Brooks

LB Tampa Bay Buccaneers

1995-2008

Hall of Famer

Super Bowl Champion

11x Pro Bowler

9x All-Pro

2002 NFL Defensive Player of the Year

2006 Pro Bowl MVP

100th Anniversary All-Time Team

2000s All-Decade Team

#55 Retired by Buccaneers

2x All-American

1993 ACC Defensive Player of the Year

1993 National Champion for the Florida State Seminoles

208 consecutive starts for weakside linebacker is an NFL record

Founded Brooks-Debartalo HS in Tampa

Derrick Brooks has numerous charitable endeavors headlined by his Brooks bunch program. That program took kids on trips all over the world.

Now, Derrick Brooks Charities do numerous amazing things in the community

2000 NFL Man of the Year (tie)

Jim Flanigan 

DT Chicago Bears

1994-2003
The James Flanigan Foundation aimed to improve child literacy
There was no available link for the James Flanigan Foundation

- Noland

The FSU Culture Problem Myth

A couple of weeks ago, RB Mario Pender was dismissed from the Florida State Football team for being a completely terrible human being. You do not ever hit a woman. EVER! No excuse for it. Jimbo Fisher as per usual did the right thing! With this dismissal, it did seem like a perfect time though to bring up the perception of Florida State Athletics to the country at large though.

There is a myth around college sports in general and especially Florida State Athletics when it comes to a culture problem. That being said, I do realize that Florida State has its issues and some things do need to tighten up. However, every issue at Florida State is completely overblown (other than when a serious crime actually happens and each time that player is dismissed!) and more reflective of the population at large. After reading this piece, you will see where I and so many other Seminoles are coming from.

First, this is nothing new, this myth it has been talked about since the early 90s and as early as I can remember liking football. You remember Free Shoes University? That's what Gator fans used to call us over a minor issue and when we started to become public enemy #1. The scandal was that agents bought $6,000 worth of Free Shoes for players. That seems like small potatoes today, but at the time was one of the biggest scandals ever, for some reason. Think of how many shoes athletes today get for free and tell me again how this is a huge deal. Also just try and tell me about a college kid that would turn down free shoes....I'll wait....

Oh, by the way one of those players that was linked to the free shoes scandal was Derrick Brooks. That guy, went on to become NFL Man of the Year. Derrick Brooks is regarded as one of the greatest humanitarians in the history of the league. He recently helped start a charter school here in Tampa. Brooks is well known for numerous charitable efforts. This is one of the greatest people to ever play football and he played at Florida State. While here, he was linked to that huge "scandal." I think we know that came out okay and any school would love to have Derrick Brooks as an ambassador for their program. The former linebacker now serves on Florida State's board of trustees.

Okay, so one good guy went to Florida State, so what?
Well, another NFL Man of the Year went to Florida State and played on the same team as Brooks. Warrick Dunn is that man who many would say is one of the best people in this country, not football players, but people. As of October 2015, Warrick Dunn had quietly given away 145 homes to single mothers. This dude dedicates his life towards providing a better life for single parents. I sure wish we had more ambassadors for college football programs like Florida State has in Warrick Dunn and Derrick Brooks.

The fantastic people to come out of Florida State does not end there....
Florida State has produced more NFL Men of the Year than any other school. This past year, Anquan Boldin, became the 3rd Seminole to win the Award. A school with a "culture problem" somehow managed to produce the most people worthy of being the greatest humanitarian in the NFL for that season. My favorite current football player won this award for the incredible amount that he does for his community. Sure is incredible since his school has such great culture problems,

So what?
You have 3 fantastic people that have come out of the school. That does not erase all the bad stuff they have done. Okay, let's look at every little issue since the "free shoes." We already talked about that issue already.

Randy Moss never played a game for Florida State. The school decided to give him a second chance after he was kicked off the team at Notre Dame, but he was unable to ever suit up for the Noles and was kicked out of the school after failing a drug test.

September 29, 1999, Laveranues Coles and Peter Warrick received $412.38 clothing for $21.40 after a friend of theirs illegally discounted the clothes. While obviously we all see this as horrible, I can see how a college kid sees nothing wrong with this. Warrick was suspended until the end of the investigation (2 games) while Coles was kicked off the team. The media would have you believe it is a double standard and that Warrick got special treatment Coles did not. What they won't report is that Coles was already on probation from the team for previous academic and legal issues. To that point Warrick had made no mistakes and 2 games seemed an adequate consequence for a college kid.

Travis Johnson in 2003 was accused of sexual battery by a female athlete. An all female jury acquitted Johnson after less than 30 minutes of deliberation. The case was pursued all the way to court though by State Attorney Willie Meggs.

Adrian McPherson tried to write a check to his friend forging someone else's name on November 18, 2002. Immediately upon hearing about the situation, Bobby Bowden kicked McPherson off the team. He was arrested and charged with felony grand theft on November 27. This was their starting QB and a guy that was 3-0 before his poor choice. McPherson was then charged with gambling in 2003 and bounced between the arena league and the NFL bench. Having nothing to do with this story, McPherson is currently the starting QB for the Toronto Argonauts in the CFL.

AJ Nicholson was removed from the roster for the bowl game against Penn State in the 2006 Orange Bowl. The suspension was for an alleged sexual assault at the team hotel. When asked about the incident, Joe Paterno said "a pretty girl comes to your room, what are you supposed to do?" That quote by JoePa should tell you all you need to know about Bowden v. Paterno.

The Seminoles had an athletic cheating scandal across multiple sports that rocked the athletic department in 2007. What most people don't tell you though here is that it was an academic tutor that provided the athletes the benefits. The athletes were immediately suspended. There was also no coach that had any knowledge of wrongdoing. Most important to realize though is that FSU self reported the violation to the NCAA and enacted scholarship restrictions on their own! Quite embarrassing that this happened at all, but I am proud that the university took the accountability up themselves and self reported. They enacted some consequence on the athletic department immediately.

Preston Parker was kicked off the team due to legal issues.

Greg Reid was kicked off the team due to legal issues.

Greg Dent was kicked off the team due to legal issues.

Jimbo Fisher has kicked off every person that has had serious legal issues. He has let investigations finished when we did not know all the facts. Fisher also maintained that his players were innocent until proven guilty. Fisher has run a clean program and never had a team put on probation.

So let's be honest about what this is about. You people hate Jameis Winston and think he got away with something.

Let's take a look at Mr. Winston's past then.....
Jameis Winston became public enemy in 2013 when he was accused of rape. Almost a full year after the alleged rape actually happened and multiple extortion attempts. Jameis has not been charged by anyone that has reviewed this case. Not FSUPD, not TPD, not the state attorney, not a former supreme court justice in the state. He was not only never convicted of this alleged crime. He was not even charged with wrongdoing at all in this case. Not even in a code of conduct hearing by one of the most respected justices in Florida history. A judge that was chosen in agreement by the accuser.

There is other stuff he did though!

Sure, Jameis Winston shot BB guns, got a hookup at Publix for crabs that went wrong, and cursed in public. A college kid did college things. I have friends all across the country going to different schools, this stuff happens every hour on college campuses. Does not excuse what happened, but let's not crucify the guy. He was suspended for the crab legs and did community service and was suspended for cursing. Let it be. The guy has NEVER BEEN ARRESTED OR CHARGED. There are a lot worse characters than Jameis Winston playing this great game.

To assume some massive conspiracy involving Winston and/or FSU is insulting to far too many well respected and honorable people. You can believe FSU athletics, FSUPD, TPD, the State Attorney's office, justices, and lawyers all over the state or you can believe someone that changed her account multiple times and tried to extort money from Mr. Winston. Hopefully, you don't choose the latter.

Karlos Williams was another name frequently mentioned by the media. He was allegedly involved in a domestic abuse complaint, but no charges were filed and thus the case was dropped. Williams was also mentioned in some drug case, but it was only as some guy that the guilty guy knew. I know a few people from my HS that got arrested and are thus guilty too, we all do. This does not mean that Williams should be accountable for that in any way.

Dalvin Cook was accused of assaulting a woman outside of a club. However, after an incredibly suspect 911 tape was released and all the proof leading toward the woman lying, Dalvin Cook was declared not guilty in the court of law during a very short trial.

Shortly before the Cook situation arose, backup QB De'Andre Johnson was dismissed from the football team. Video was released of Johnson assaulting a female at a nightclub and he was dismissed immediately after proof of guilt.

And now, the Mario Pender issue happened. This is a very detailed history of the issues with Florida State Football Players, but let's not forget two important things....

1) State Attorney William Meggs
Meggs is well known as being a no nonsense district attorney that will prosecute to the furthest extent of the law. He also has a reputation as being more difficult on those involved with Florida State Athletics than the general population. Despite this though, critics will have you assume that Meggs covered up for the Seminoles and especially for Jameis Winston during his time as district attorney. Ignore the countless times he has tried to take down Seminole athletes, he is obviously a plant by the athletic department. That is why he pursued a rape charge against Travis Johnson with no evidence of wrongdoing, correct? Maybe he didn't pursue the case against Winston because Jameis is 100% innocent and even he realized any attempt to pursue the case would be futile.

2) No Seminoles Ever in Trouble in the League
Isn't it amazing that a team with this much alleged protection in Tallahassee and so many players drafted, never has an alumni with issues in the league. These guys are never in trouble outside of Tallahassee. Seriously, never! If the protection is so great, they'd have to get in trouble somewhere once they left that protection and enabled behavior. There are no cases though were Seminoles get into trouble in the league. Unless you count Randy Moss who never played a game for FSU or RB Sammie Smith who was drafted way back in 1989 there have been zero discipline issues involving people that came from FSU's program once they left FSU.

The facts are quite the opposite of what you would think of a school with a "culture problem." Instead of getting into trouble, FSU football players are winning awards for community service. If FSU has a "culture problem", I know a few other schools that could use a "culture problem." Let's help these other schools develop the incredible human beings that Florida State does.

In the interest of full disclosure before uncovering this information I will give my background and admit some bias (which most non-Seminoles do not do). I am a Florida State alum. I graduated in 2009 with a degree in Sports Management and came back to the school to get my Masters in Physical Education in 2011. Additionally, I met my wife at Florida State and that has just added to the fact that the school has held a special place in my heart my entire life. Now, knowing full well that I have been a Seminole fan my entire life and by reading this article, you can see things through my perspective.

-Noland

Noles in NFL Training Camps

Florida State has quite the list of NFL players on current rosters. The list is about as impressive a list as humanly possible from one school. It of course was bolstered by a NFL record number of draftees over the past few drafts. Jimbo Fisher has done outstanding with player development and getting guys ready for the NFL. This list will help prove that. It is also a way to see which Noles will be doing what in the recently started training camps.

AFC East

Buffalo Bills

We start with the team that has become a pipeline for FSU. The Buffalo Bills have drafted several FSU players in the past including multiple draft selections in 2015 from Florida State. I will take a look at the list alphabetically and describe what each player will be competing for in training camp. The Bills have 9 Seminoles on their training camp roster which is more than any other team.

Nigel Bradham

The fourth year pro out of Crawfordville, FL is one of Bobby Bowden's most memorable final recruits. He was a hard-hitting linebacker in college and that has not changed in the pros. The only thing that has changed with Bradham is that he has become an even more disciplined players. One of the leaders and best players on Buffalo's defense, Bradham will be starting again in 2015. He will look to build off of last season where he had 104 tackles before his season was cut short due to injury.

Ronald Darby

The 50th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft has made an early impression at camp. All signs seem to be pointed towards Darby earning a starting job for his efforts in camp. He is competing for a starting cornerback spot and has been said to be the best cover corner that Buffalo has got so far. Should Leodis McKelvin's ankle injury linger, it makes it more likely that Darby will be a starting corner for Buffalo. The Bills best option though is for Darby snd McKelvin to be starting next to each other. 

Andre Fluellen

Fluellen is a 7 year journeyman that is looking to make the 53 man roster. There is no chance of him starting barring an injury as Buffalo has one of the most dominant defensive lines in football. There is a somewhat decent chance of him making the 53 man though.

EJ Manuel

The most interesting battle in this camp and perhaps in any camp is the QB battle here in Buffalo. This battle will be between Matt Cassell, Tyrod Taylor and former Seminole EJ Manuel. You saw in my post last week who I think will win the job. I still say Manuel wins the job and has an outstanding season, but there is a possibility that is not the case. The other two quarterbacks were not brought in to just back him up. They were brought in to compete for the starting quarterback job with Manuel. It is put up or shut up time for EJ and hopefully he seizes the opportunity.

Nick O'Leary

Nick O'Leary was my favorite Seminole this past season besides the QB. I really enjoyed him over his career as a Nole. He is competing for a spot as the #2 TE with 4 other guys. One or two of the group will be cut with the others getting some serious playing time most likely. O'Leary is coming off the devastating torn hamstring suffered in the Rose Bowl warmups. That injury seriously impacted his performance in that game, but he showed a great deal of toughness in powering through. Now that he is healed, he will need that toughness and then some to win some PT in the league.

Garrison Sanborn

Sanborn has done a fantastic job as the Bills long snapper and will be their distance snapper again in 2015.

Karlos Williams

Karlos Williams is competing for carries as the number 3 RB behind LeSean McCoy and Fred Jackson. He is also competing to take a few goal line carries. It is all but assured that he will be that 3rd back for the Bills. With Jackson currently injured though, there is a chance that Williams can move as high as the #2 RB.

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins surprisingly have no Florida State Seminoles on their Training Camp roster.

New England Patriots

The Patriots won the Super Bowl last year with FSU rookie Bryan Stork as the starting center, Stork is joined on the offensive line currently by a former FSU teammate. This makes 2 Seminoles on the Patriot training camp roster.

Tre Jackson

Rookie Tre Jackson reunites with Stork and is competing to win a starting job. Jackson looks to not only start, but have the same impact that Stork had in 2014. The two make a powerful duo and Jackson is glad to reunite with Stork in New England. FSU's most consistent offensive lineman last season looks to start in New England.

Bryan Stork

Started last year and won a Super Bowl ring. After winning a national championship and a Super Bowl ring in a little over a year, nothing should change in the playing time department for Stork.

New York Jets

After a poor season saw their coach receive a pink slip, the Jets upgraded and added a Seminole to the team. They have just that one Seminole in camp.

Antonio Cromartie

Bad at keeping track of his kids, but good at keeping track of receivers. I enjoy Cromartie and his play on the field, but I am embarassed by his lack of parenting off of it. As one of the better corners in the league though, there is no doubt that Cromartie will start.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

Some Ravens rookies played huge roles for the Ravens in 2014 and those roles look to expand in the coming season. Those two Seminoles will look to get the Ravens another Super Bowl ring.

Terrance Brooks

Following an injury, Terrance Brooks is buried on the depth chart. He faces the possibility of being a roster casualty although I don't expect that to happen. There is still a chance that Brooks can compete for a starting job too, but that seems unlikely given his current position on the depth chart. Unfortunately for him, his NFL career may need to take flight somewhere else.

Timmy Jernigan

Timmy Jernigan seemed to have a very solid rookie season and really emerged in the playoffs. Now, with Haloti Ngata gone, he will really take center stage. Jernigan is going to start for the Ravens this season and they need him to play well. The team is really going to rely on a big season from the big man. Let's be honest too, there a few better to take that spotlight.

                                                                Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals only have 1 Seminole on their training camp roster and its a guy that had no impact in 2014.

James Wilder Jr.

Wilder is a guy that is loaded with talent and potential. If there was a recruit Jimbo had that was expected to do more, but didn't quite pan out, it is Wilder. However, Wilder has still been successful and had a decent career at FSU. While he did disappoint slightly at FSU everyone associated with the Noles would not be surprised of a breakout from Wilder. We are all rooting for it. Wilder is fighting for a spot on the 53 and a chance to make an impact.

Cleveland Browns

The Browns have one of the worst offensive rosters in football. One thing that Browns do have working for them though is that they have four Seminoles on their training camp roster.

Cameron Erving

Erving is competing for and will likely win an offensive line starting spot. He is likely to be the starting center for Cleveland. His versatility sure helps him and the Browns.

Kevin Haplea

Haplea is an unknown because he got such little playing time at Florida State behind Nick O'Leary. He was a transfer from Penn State (after the scandal) that played in mostly blocking situations. He is competing for a similar role with the Browns.

Jacobi McDaniel

Jacobi McDaniel was a victim of the move to FSU's new defense under Jeremy Pruitt and the emergence of Timmy Jernigan while at FSU. He didn't get the reps he likely would have got in the previous defense that senior year. Because of that he has become a bit of an unknown. That being said, much like last year, he is fighting for a roster spot.

Rodney Smith

Rodney Smith has outstanding size and decent speed, but has yet to make an NFL reception in a game. That needs to change this year for the Browns to have success. This receiving core is pathetic. Out of that comes opportunity to Smith. I don't believe he is a candidate to start, but he is a candidate to make the roster and get playing time because the Browns other options are that bad.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers in many ways have been the model NFL Franchise. Behind their recent success and their Super Bowl runs, they have had Seminoles starting for the team. That will be no different in 2015. The Steelers have 2 Seminoles on their training camp roster and both will likely start.

Lawrence Timmons

Timmons showed incredible play making ability last year in recording 134 tackles for Pittsburgh. Following the retirements of Troy Polomalu and Ike Taylor, he is likely now the leader of the defense as well. There is no doubt that Timmons will start in 2015 and that he will make an impact.

Vince Williams

Williams has been a starter in parts of each of his first two seasons. This season, Williams looks to be a full time starter for the first time in his NFL career. He is hoping to equal or better his 96 career tackles in just this one season. Two Seminoles starting on the same unit in the pros for a contending team is an incredible accomplishment.

AFC South

Houston Texans

The Texans only have 1 Seminole in training camp and he might be a longshot to make the roster.

Terrance Parks

Terrance Parks played in just one game for Seattle last season and made no impact. Getting a fresh start in Houston is nice, but he will have to put in a lot of work to make the 53 man roster.

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts are a trendy Super Bowl pick for a lot of media outlets this season. They employ one starter from Florida State and he is the only player in camp from the Noles.

Bjoern Werner

The legend of Bjoern Werner is a fine one at Florida State and you could argue that he is still learning the game. You can still count on your hands the amount of years that Werner has played football. That means that he has a lot left in the tank and should continue to become a better player. Werner looks to improve on his solid 2014 and hit 10 NFL sacks for the 1st time in 2015.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars have been awful for a while now, but seem to be headed in the right direction. This upbeat attitude about the future of the Jaguars is centered on an oustanding rookie class in 2014. That rookie class contained a Seminole. He is joined by one other Seminole in camp this year. 

Rashad Greene

Greene was arguably the most productive receiver in FSU history and part of one of the greatest receiving cores in history. That 2013 National Championship receiving core also included Kelvin Benjamin and Kenny Shaw. Greene's production likely won't be quite the same in Jacksonville, but he is a weapon. He is currently projected as Jacksonville's number 4 receiver and has an outside shot to be their number 3 guy. It could take some time for him to work into a starting role, but don't write it off from happening. Greene runs fantastic routes and has very reliable hands. That being said he is also incredibly undersized.

Telvin Smith

Telvin Smith played at a Pro Bowl level in 2014 as a rookie. Smith had 104 tackles, 2 sacks, an INT, a forced fumble and 2 fumble recoveries. He did all this despite only starting the last 9 games of the season. Smith will start and in my opinion is the best player on the Jaguars defense.

Tennessee Titans

Remember that the Tennessee Titans are my pick to finish with the worst record this season. I see it as inevitable. They should have made the trade with the Eagles. They lack impact players from any school and that includes Florida State. They do have one Seminole, but it is the most frustrating player on the Seminoles roster.

Josue Matias

Matias was the weak link of the offensive line once Roderick Johnson stepped in last season. He got abused in the National Championship game by Oregon's scheme. It will be a surprise if he makes the 53 man roster let alone get any substantial time.

AFC West

Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos are once again most people's favorites to win the AFC. That projection has absolutely nothing to do with Florida State. A Seminole could help land the team in the playoffs though.

Tony Carter

Carter has 3 career starts in 6 seasons with the Broncos and has spent most time as a nickel corner for the team. He likely holds that role again in 2015, although he could be the #4 corner depending on what happens in camp. Though he is unlikely to star, corner depth is critical as we saw in the Super Bowl last season.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs no longer have Rodney Hudson and thus have no Seminoles remaining on the roster.

Oakland Raiders

If there is one other team besides the Bills that can be considered to have FSU as a pipeline team it is the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders, who also seem to be headed in the right direction, have 5 Seminoles in training camp currently.

Mario Edwards Jr.

Edwards is the former #1 player in America and was a 2nd round draft pick of the Raiders after a disappointing final season. Edwards was mentally checked out for the Seminoles with an eye on the pros already. While it was disappointing, he did play a large portion of the season injured and he was still quite effective. There is no doubting the amount of talent and potential that Edwards has. He will likely compete for a starting spot with the Raiders.

Rodney Hudson

Hudson was the most consistent player at the end of the Bowden era. He has also been a solid player for years in the NFL and was instrumental in the Chiefs turnaround. The center got a big paycheck this offseason and was tapped into because Oakland wants to upgrade their offensive line. Hudson will be starting for the Silver and Black.

Sebastian Janikowski

Janikowski was the 1st in a now long line of FSU kickers in the NFL. He is joined by Graham Gano and Dustin Hopkins. Soon Roberto Aguayo will be added to the list. Janikowski is perhaps the highest profile of the list as he was selected in the 1st round for his big leg. He will once again be kicking for the Silver and Black.

Christian Ponder

Ponder gets a fresh start in Oakland after a rough finish in Minnesota. He will be looking to resurrect his career out West and is battling for the #2 QB job.

Menelik Watson

Watson came to FSU as a very talented, but very raw offensive lineman. The Raiders still selected him early despite him still being raw when he entered the NFL draft. Watson looks to start a full season for the Raiders now after starting in 12 games across his first two seasons.

San Diego Chargers

The Chargers look to once again battle for a playoff spot and will at least partially be relying on a Seminole to help get there.

Patrick Robinson

After 5 seasons in New Orleans, Robinson left the Saints to come to sunny San Diego and play with the Chargers. He has 33 starts in those 5 seasons and will try to compete for a starting job here as well. As of right now, he is projected to be the starter opposite Brandon Flowers. However, there is some stiff competition for that #2 corner spot.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are the reigning NFC East Champions, but it has nothing to do with any Seminoles on the roster. There are 0 Seminoles on the Cowboys training camp roster.

New York Giants
The Giants are always some level of threat to win the Super Bowl. They have won 2 of them since 2008. In fact, they have won the Super Bowl on a consistent pattern that would mean this year will be a Super Bowl win. This year is year 4 which would follow the pattern. To go with those 2 recent Super Bowls, the Giants have two Seminoles in camp.

Mike Harris

Harris was a consistent performer as a corner for FSU. Since joining the NFL, he has been a solid, but unspectacular player at the position. Harris has played in 36 games with 8 starts in his 3 NFL seasons. While there is an outside shot that Harris could start for the Giants, he is competing for a 2nd string spot and an assurance that he will make the roster. Harris could very well be playing for another team or on a practice squad again.

Bobby Hart

Hart had 37 career starts at FSU and had moments of brilliance as the right tackle. He is young and still has tremendous upside. All of that being said, he was disappointing at times and many were surprised to see him get drafted. I am happy he was drafted because it allowed FSU to break the record, but not sure he deserved it based on inconsistent play. The Giants are surely going off of Hart's tremendous upside and potential. Hart seems to have moved inside with the Giants which should allow him to be more effective. He is listed as the number 3 left guard though currently and is a longshot to make the roster.

Philadelphia Eagles
With all the crazy offseason player movement by the Eagles, it is insane to think that not one of their moves involved a Seminole. That being said, that is exactly the case. There are no Seminoles in Eagles camp. They will have to search for their 1st Super Bowl Ring Seminole free.

Washington Redskins

The Redskins have been struggling for years now and they haven't had an impact player from the Seminoles in years either. This year they have one in camp and it will be interesting to see what he does for the Redskins.

Chris Thompson

Thompson is the off-injured back from FSU that spent most of his college career sidelined by injuries. He has incredible talent and vision, but really struggles at staying healthy. On a personal level, I am really hoping that Thompson succeeds because he is one of the nicest football players that I have met. The guy is just a class act that everyone who knows him wants to succeed. You don't win football games and get playing time for being nice though. Thompson will have to really work to get playing time with the Skins. According to this report though, Thompson is emerging as the 3rd down back in Washington. The runningback looks to finally be catching on and getting playing time with the Skins after being mistakenly used as a kick returner.

NFC North

Chicago Bears
The Bears are a trendy pick to surprise people across the league this year. I don't see it, but then again I didn't see Christian Jones making a major impact with the Bears as an undrafted rookie FA. He did so well that the Bears picked up another Seminole early in the draft. These transactions gave the Bears two Seminoles in camp.

Eddie Goldman

Goldman was an early draft pick by the Bears after he had a very impressive final season despite being plagued by injuries. The Seminoles had few players as consistent as Goldman and he dominated the Clemson game. His late forced fumble helped the Seminoles pull off the massive victory. He joins a Bears defense that under-performed last season and looks to get back to a normal dominating Bears defense. Goldman is expected to start and should win a starting spot in camp.

Christian Jones

An undrafted free agent rookie last season, Jones was supposed to be one of the few players that didn't make a major impact off of FSU's championship roster. He was outstanding though and made a tremendous impact. The linebacker was able to crack Chicago's starting lineup and start 5 games for the Bears. There is no reason to believe that he won't compete for another starting spot this season.

Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions have no Florida State Seminoles in camp.

Green Bay Packers
The Packers had a Seminole that made an impact on their near Super Bowl run. That Seminole is the only one in camp.

Letroy Guion

Guion had a breakthrough season in 2014 and started all 16 games for the Packers. He also made some outstanding plays for the Packers as a starter in the playoffs. Because of the stellar season, it is expected that Guion will once again be a starter for the Pack in 2015. 

Minnesota Vikings

One high profile Seminole in Christian Ponder has left the Vikings for a job in Oakland. It was best for both parties to move on that one. However, the Vikings still have one Seminole and its a guy that happens to be one of the best in the league at his position.

Xavier Rhodes

While Rhodes was at Florida State, he had NFL superstar written over him. The opposing team completely avoided Rhodes then because he was such a stud corner. It didn't happen the same way for Rhodes in the pros right away. That being said, it has happened. Xavier Rhodes is officially one of the best cornerbacks in the league and a guaranteed starter. Rhodes is a true shutdown corner and gives the Vikings a legitimate weapon on defense. He is the top guy on a now stellar CB unit after Terrance Newman and Trae Waynes have been added to the fold. At that position at least the vikings are set. The Rhodes are truly closed for opposing passing games.

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are lacking Seminoles on their training camp roster. They are also lacking crowd noise and wins. That being said, they do have 2 Seminoles at the same position.

Devonta Freeman

Freeman was the starting RB during FSU's 2013 season and looked to be in line for some major carries for the Falcons before a small injury in the preseason. The same thing has happened this season, but should Freeman be able to recover, he could win the starting job. Freeman showed a lot of versatility and promise in his rookie season. He had a touchdown receiving and one rushing while playing in all 16 games. While he was not starting any of them, he got a lot of exposure as a rookie. The question for him at this point is injuries. He will need to avoid another injury to stay in the mix. Unfortunately, he already sustained a injury in camp and will likely miss another week due to it.

Antone Smith

I like Antone Smith, but he's hanging on by a thread on this roster. He is at best the 3rd RB and will really have to fight to stay on this roster, let alone get carries. In 5 NFL seasons, Smith has just 29 carries in the regular season. He needs to prove himself.

Carolina Panthers
The Panthers advanced to and won a playoff game in large part due to their Seminole contribution. This team still has the same two Seminoles in camp.

Kelvin Benjamin

Benjamin will always be an icon for Florida State fans for his national championship clinching catch. His performance against Florida that season likewise will always be remembered. He was Jameis Winston's big target and big play threat with the Seminoles. Last season, after being selected in the 1st round, he was the same for Cam Newton. Benjamin was a serious rookie of the year contender all year long. He finished the season with 1,000+ yards and 9 touchdowns. There is no doubt that he will be starting and contending for a pro bowl spot.

Graham Gano

Gano is a part of the now long list of outstanding kickers from Florida State University. This guy was loved for his incredible and unprecedented athleticism as a kicker. Back then, he handled punting and kicking, but now is only a kicker in the NFL. He will return as the Panthers placekicker for the 2015 season.

New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints added two Florida State Seminoles to their roster in 2015 that were not with the team last season.

Dustin Hopkins

Hopkins was the kicker after Gano at Florida State that broke several scoring records. The kicker is best known for the gold shoes he wore while at FSU.  He is now in New Orleans and will take over placekicking duties for the Saints.

PJ Williams

Williams had a frustrating and injury plagued final season at Florida State. However, despite that, he will always be loved by Seminole faithful for how he played in the National Championship win. This guy was unbelievable that game and has a lot of talent. The question after last season has to be whether his heart will always be in the game. He is competing for a starting cornerback job.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa only has one Seminole in camp.

Jameis Winston

Tampa only has one Seminole, but it is also the guy that was selected #1 overall. This Seminole is one of the true legends of college football. The former Heisman winner and National Champion has only lost one game as a starter in college. A total record of 26-1 as a major college quarterback is quite the impressive resume. It gets more impressive when you consider that he helped set a team scoring record during that 2013 National Championship season. The team was simply incredible both years he played. That lead to him being selected #1 overall because of his incredible football IQ and ability to handle the QB position right away. He has handled it brilliantly in Tampa and has already been named the starter for the season. Tampa is in a much better spot this year than last and it is because of Winston. His incredible moxie and potential has even led to some very high praise from his teammates.

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals have had a steady Seminole presence for years in Darnell Dockett, but Dockett has left this season for a division rival. That leaves the Cardinals with no Seminoles in camp.

San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers had a lot of player loss/movement this offseason with some unexpected player retirements. Those unexpected retiring players opened up some opportunities for others. Including in that other group are several former Seminoles.Now, there are 4 former Florida State Football players lining up in Cardinals training camp.

Anquan Boldin
Anquan Boldin is probably the best known Seminole from the pre-Jimbo Fisher era that is still currently in the pros. He was a spectacular wideout that was a team leader for the Seminoles. Boldin also played QB during a BCS Bowl game while with that talent. That exposure at FSU led him to be selected in the 2nd round despite concerns about his speed. Those concerns were greatly exaggerated. Boldin now has 940 receptions for 12,406 career yards and is a borderline Hall of Fame candidate. This past season was another 1,000 yard campaign for Boldin despite everything in San Francisco falling apart. Boldin was that one rock. He doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon either.

Tank Carradine
Carradine really emerged as a senior for the Noles and not until then. He made a major impact as a senior though until devastated by a late injury. The injury dropped him from the 1st round to the 2nd where the 49ers snatched him  up. He has been a valuable backup since then but stuck behind some very talented people on the depth chart. Carradine will work to crack that starting lineup in 2015 but it will be difficult.

Darnell Dockett
Dockett is perhaps the most outspoken former Seminole. This guy seems to chime in on anything and everything in the world of sports and beyond. He is one of the most talented to every lace up the garnet and gold, but also one of the most controversial. Dockett is famous for a Dillard's incident very similar to that of Peter Warrick. He received a very similar suspension from Bobby Bowden. Once he left FSU, he has stayed out of trouble and made a major impact on the field. He now has 40.5 sacks in 12 seasons and is anxious to get back on the field after an injury filled 2014. Dockett spent his entire career in Arizona, but just left to join the division rival and make his former team pay.

Nick Moody
Nick Moody was not as exposed as some other Seminoles in college, but gained a reputation as FSU's hardest hitter. I and many other Noles loved Moody and the way he played in garnet and gold. It was no surprise that Moody caught on and made an early impact with his NFL team eventually becoming a starter. With the retired linebackers that the 49ers lost this offseason, there is little doubt that Moody will be starting again in 2015. 

Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks have had two incredible seasons with no Seminoles on their roster, and nothing changed in that department this offseason.

St. Louis Rams
The Rams have a lot of new faces for the 2015 season, but the studs they had on defense remain. One of those studs is a promising defensive back from Florida State University.

Lamarcus Joyner

Joyner was the emotional defensive leader on a dominating 2013 National Championship defense for Florida State. Scouts were able to see that and its ability to transfer to the pros despite Joyner's small stature. He had a decent rookie campaign, but can get better and is said to be making progress, Joyner is currently listed as the #2 Free Safety for the Rams, but was drafted as a nickel corner. I believe that he projects better as a free safety and will eventually be the start there. It will be difficult for that to happen this season though.

-Noland

100 Most Likable American Athletes (90-81)

Two weeks ago, I started looking at the most likable athletes in this country following the retirements of Derek Jeter and Champ Bailey. That continues today with the latest look at some awesome American athletes. First, let's look back at what we have gone over so far...
Preview
100-91

90. Damian Lillard

Oakland, California

Current Team: Portland Trail Blazers

Damian Lillard is a guard for the Portland Trail Blazers. He is a fantastic player who was Rookie of the Year during his rookie season and is an all-star level player currently. Lillard has also become quite involved with charity work including hosting a New Years Eve party for the Brian Grant Foundation. That event which ran a few weeks ago ran from 8pm to 2am and benefited Parkinson's research. He refuses to openly campaign for himself for an all-star spot although he is deserving and just plays the game. This guy is awesome he only calls attention if it is a charity event like the one I mentioned. His play on the court is the biggest reason he is on this list, but his work on it adds to his popularity. With only 2 NBA seasons under his belt following a career as a mid-major star in college, we can expect to see a lot more of Damian Lillard.

89. John Carlson

Natick, Massachusetts

Current Team: Washington Capitals

John Carlson was on Team USA of the 2014 Winter Olympics and also represents the Washington Capitals. He was a strong defenseman on that USA squad and represented our country well. Who doesn't like rooting on the old red, white, and blue anyway? He even scored the first goal of that 2014 tournament enduring him with American hockey fans. During the 2010 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, Carlson scored the winning goal in the Gold Medal Game against Canada. Carlson was the alternate captain of that 2010 squad. His international success is a big reason why Carlson made the cut for this list.

88. Jozy Altidore

Livingston, New Jersey

Current Team: Sunderland

Jozy Altidore is obviously best known for being on the US Men's National Team in this country. Altidore represented the United States in both the 2010 and 2014 World Cups. He had to be carried off the field though in that 2014 World Cup opener against Ghana. Because he did not play more in the actual World Cup, I don't think he can be higher than this. However, Altidore became very popular with American sport enthusiasts during the qualifying stage. Altidore does not appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.

87. Heath Miller

Richlands, Virginia

Current Team: Pittsburgh Steelers

Heath Miller is a tight end and football player that just goes about his business. I tend to think that Americans respect that. In my opinion, he is one the best blocking tight ends in football (was the best at one time) and has been a consistent player for the Steelers for years. He just does impressive things on the field without calling attention and always gets the job done. Miller even has a fan page talking about why he is so likable. After browsing through that page, you can see why people love Miller as a player and a person. This guy does a ton of charity work and is just an all-around great guy. The Steelers love Heath Miller and he is a guy that any fanbase would love to have on their team.

86. Cullen Jones

New York City, New York

Swimming

Cullen Jones is one of the most recognizable swimmers that we have here in America. He won the 4x100 meter medley relay at the 2012 Olympics on Michael Phelps' team. Jones also won 2 silver medals in 2012 at those game. His American team holds the 4x100 freestyle World Record. This guy's story is very interesting as he learned to swim at 5 following a near death experience from drowning. Years later he is an Olympic athlete and one of the most famous ones we got. Of course, let's be honest we remember him for this back in 2008 and being on this team...

85. JJ Hardy

Tucson, Arizona

Current Team: Baltimore Orioles

The first current Oriole of the list. JJ Hardy is the perfect professional baseball player. Great team leader that doesn't run his mouth and is awesome in the community. Many consider him the best and most consistent shortstop in the American League. Because of this great consistency at defense, Hardy has won 3 straight gold glove awards. Luckily for O's fans he also signed a three year extension back in October and will remain an Oriole for the next few seasons. The fact that he signed for less money to stay on his current team is not lost amongst sports fan and it is a rare site today. He could have easily taken the money that the Yankees would have thrown at him, but that would have made Hardy far less likable as a baseball player. Hardy also as mentioned does his own charity work and volunteers for causes of other athletes. Here is an example of that as Hardy volunteered at this baseball clinic for Shelley Duncan's cause.

84. Klay Thompson

Los Angeles, California

Current Team: Golden State Warriors

Klay Thompson this season has seemed to take the step from really good player to superstar player. He has gone from scoring 16.6 PPG to now over 21 PPG. This leap has been accompanied by the Warriors having the best record in basketball and a certain all-star game appearance for Thompson. Last season, he and Steph Curry set an NBA record for most three pointers in a season by a duo. That record will likely be crushed this season. Thompson was a member of the gold medal winning FIBA Basketball World Cup team this summer. Picking up the gold increased his popularity and likability as did picking up his game. The most recent feat that Thompson accomplished of scoring 37 in a quarter, really set him up to be loved. He set social media on fire with that one and it leads many to believe some more spectacular play is coming.

83. Kyla Ross

Honolulu, Hawaii

Gymnastics

Kyla Ross is the least popular member of the Fab 5 team from the 2012 Olympic Games. People remember Gabby Douglas and Jordyn Wieber dominating. They remember McKayla's vault and they remember Aly's grace. A lot of people forget that Kyla was on the team. However, everyone that remembers loves her for it. Those that don't remember, tend to get a refresher when reminded. The girl was awesome at the games and it would have been hard to win gold without her.

82. Matt Bonner

Concord, New Hampshire

Current Team: San Antonio Spurs

The first Spur on this list is Red Mamba. This team has gone from one of the most hated in sports to one of the most likable in a very short period of time. Most people hated them because they always won, but now respect them because of their team first attitude. They love that a guy like Matt Bonner who is nothing outside of San Antonio is a stud in this system. This guy had crazy fanfare at the 2014 All-Star Game where he almost won the 3 point contest. Eventhough he finished 2nd in the contest, Bonner impressed a lot of people. He impresses them more with his unselfish play as a key member of the San Antonio machine. Matt Bonner has made a name for himself in San Antonio.

81. Anquan Boldin

Pahokee, Florida

Current Team: San Francisco 49ers

Anquan Boldin is my personal favorite football player. Nobody plays with the same passion that this guy does. No receiver I have seen has been more fearless going across the middle. There aren't guys that get more out of what they have. He was a clear first rounder, but went in the 2nd because he ran a 4.7 40. The fact that he ran that speed shows that he isn't a speedster. I ran 4.7 as an offensive lineman in  HS and I am not fast. Boldin also isn't the fastest or the greatest leaper. Boldin is a guy with reliable hands that runs fantastic routes. He is a rock in the offense and you don't have to worry about him dropping passes. Every team that has had Boldin has loved Boldin. Despite WR being a loaded position during his career, Boldin has appeared in 3 Pro Bowl Games. The wideout was also the 2003 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. During his first game in the NFL, Boldin made a quick impression by setting a rookie receiving record in his first game. Those 217 yards receiving in his NFL debut left quite the impression. During the 2009 season, Boldin became the 5th fastest player ever to reach 7,000 yards receiving in his career. In 12 NFL seasons, Boldin has 12,406 yards receiving. That puts Boldin 4th among active players and 19th all-time in receiving yards currently.
Boldin is also likable for his Q81 foundation. That foundation does fantastic work and provides the following services. The NFL sure could use more individuals like Anquan Boldin.

Come back next week for numbers 80-71

-Noland