Stinchcomb earns noble honor

Saints right tackle Jon Stinchcomb was named the Saints' Walter Payton Man of the Year award for his works off the field. It places him in the running for the league's overall award, which will be announced the week of the Super Bowl.

Stinchcomb has been involved with numerous charitable ventures ranging from visits to hospitals and schools and also pushed to create a program to give away bicycles for underprivileged children.

“Several of our players were considered for this award, and all were worthy candidates considering the impact they’ve made on our community,” said Saints Owner/Executive Vice President Rita Benson LeBlanc. “Jon has sought out ways he can make a difference, and with his approach and the way he connects to young people he has been an inspiration with each of his endeavors.”

The Man of the Year award has been in existence since 1970 and honors NFL players who demonstrate outstanding balance in their lives between civic and professional responsibilities. All 32 finalists, one from each NFL team, will receive a $1,000 contribution toward a charity of his choice, and the overall winner will receive $25,000 to donate to his selected charity.

“Jon has concentrated on making his adopted hometown of New Orleans a better place,” Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis said. “Tuesdays are his day off, but it’s rare when he isn’t out in the community. His character and sense of purpose make him a role model for young people. This is a responsibility he takes seriously, and this award is well deserved.”

The 2008 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year winner will be announced during Commissioner Roger Goodell’s press conference prior to Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa. The Stinchcomb Family Foundation has been designated as the charity that will receive the $1,000 donation in his name.

Saints quarterback Drew Brees shared the overall Man of the Year award in 2006 with Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson.