Thomas Davis has collected the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award as part of the annual NFL honours ahead of kickoff at the Super Bowl this evening.

The Carolina Panthers linebacker was selected ahead of San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Anquan Boldin and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers to receive the honour, which recognises NFL players who have contributed in their community.

After being revealed as this year's winner, Thomas said: "I mean, just being here tonight is something that's positive for me. Just knowing where all I've come from. Sitting there looking at the video, seeing my hometown and seeing all the stuff that I've been able to overcome throughout my career. I'm just excited to stand before you guys tonight.

"Just knowing the struggles of some parents. I grew up in a single-parent household, and my mom struggled to raise me and my sister, and I didn't want these kids to go through what we had to go through. I tried to reach out and give back to them as much as I can to make sure that those kids don't go through those struggles."

Davis founded the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation, which aims to enhance the quality of life of underprivileged children and their families.