STWF Sports | KANSAS CITY | Dec. 6, 2025 — For 13 seasons, Travis Kelce has been one of the most unstoppable offensive forces in football. A record-breaking tight end, a fixture in Pro Bowls, and a three-time Super Bowl champion, Kelce has cemented himself as one of the greatest to ever play the position. Yet as historic as those on-field accomplishments have been, the Kansas City Chiefs’ veteran now has his sights set on one final triumph — one rooted not in yards or touchdowns, but in community impact.
On Thursday, Kansas City announced that Kelce is their club nominee for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, considered the league’s highest honor for philanthropy and community service.
A Career of Dominance — and Heart
Kelce’s resume already reads like a Canton-bound masterpiece.
— Most touchdown receptions in Chiefs history
— 10-time Pro Bowler, tied with legendary names
— Multiple All-Pro selections
— Three Super Bowl titles, including back-to-back in 2023–2024
But long before fans debated whether Kelce belonged next to Tony Gonzalez as the franchise’s tight end GOAT, he was quietly building a legacy off the field.
The centerpiece of that work is his 87 & Running Foundation, established in 2015 to empower underserved youth through educational programming, mentorship, and community support.
It’s Kelce’s mission to help kids discover opportunities they might never have otherwise seen — whether through STEM initiatives, sports clinics, fundraising events, or school scholarships.
Walter Payton Award: The NFL’s Most Respected Honor
Every year, all 32 NFL franchises nominate one player who exemplifies excellence in charitable outreach and character.
The award, named after Chicago Bears Hall of Famer Walter Payton, recognizes athletes whose impact stretches beyond touchdowns and trophies. Though only one winner will ultimately be named at NFL Honors before the Super Bowl, club nominees are considered elite examples of leadership.
Kelce has long fit the bill.
Kelce’s Off-Field Leadership Is as Real as His On-Field Numbers
This nomination isn’t ceremonial — it’s earned.
Kelce’s work in Kansas City includes:
— Community centers and youth learning opportunities through Ignite Innovation Lab
— Support for children battling poverty and systemic barriers
— Partnerships to bring creative arts & tech education directly into schools
— Fundraising efforts totaling millions toward local youth initiatives
Kelce has also been vocal about ensuring his work lasts long after football. As he approaches the twilight of his playing career, the tight end has been preparing his foundation to flourish beyond his time on the field.
A Final Milestone in an Unmatched NFL Journey
Winning the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award would be a fitting capstone for a generational career.
Some legends are remembered for their yards and touchdowns. Kelce will be remembered for something even greater — his ability to change lives.
“When you talk about the type of man we want representing Kansas City, Travis Kelce is everything you hope for — passionate, generous, genuine,” said one team official. “Not just one of the best tight ends ever, but one of the best people to ever wear this uniform.”
As the Chiefs chase another playoff run, the 34-year-old continues carving a legacy built on more than statistics.
On the field, Travis Kelce has broken records that will stand for decades.
Off the field, he’s building a foundation built to last for generations.
