Former Richmonder Russell Wilson is one of 32 finalists for the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.

The annual distinction goes to the NFL player demonstrating community service off the field and excellence on it. Now quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson

starred at Collegiate School in Western Henrico County and at North Carolina State and the University of Wisconsin before entering the NFL.

“Since I got here in 2012, I under- stood there was an opportunity to use my platform to love, serve and give back,” Wilson told the Associated Press. “That’s been one of the core principles of my life that my parents taught me.”

Wilson and his wife, singer and model Ciara, have been leading philanthropists in the Pacific Northwest.

Each of the finalists will be presented $40,000 to donate to the charity of their choice.

Another finalist is defensive lineman Jonathan Allen from the Washington Football Team.

The winner will be announced at the NFL Honors TV show during Super Bowl Week in Tampa Bay.