EAGAN, Minn. — It should come as no surprise that Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Harrison Phillips is an impact guy. At 6 feet 3 inches tall and 307 lbs., Phillips is the kind of guy who can clog up the run game and occupy opponents so teammates can run free and make plays.
But on Tuesday, the Vikings announced that the six-year NFL veteran is being recognized for the impact he makes while out of uniform and in the communities he has called home. Phillips was named the team's nominee for the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
The big fella is one of 32 candidates for NFL Man of the Year, which recognizes players who "have not only exhibited excellence on the field but also whose passion to impact lives extends beyond the game and has led them to leave positive legacies in their communities."
It is a description that fits Harrison Phillips to a "T." After being drafted by the Buffalo Bills, he established the Harrison’s Playmakers program, which supports children and young adults with developmental differences and needs through a variety of sports camps. The nonprofit now has Playmakers groups in Buffalo, Minnesota and Phillips' hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. He charges no admission for his special camps but asks campers to bring an item to donate to a pet shelter or another local charity, giving those he helps a chance to help others.
“We are extremely proud of Harrison and his wife, Shae, for the immediate impact they have made in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area,” said Vikings Owner/President Mark Wilf in a released statement. “With his work through Harrison’s Playmakers and with many local organizations, Harrison is an incredible role model to his teammates and pushes those around him to serve and inspire others. We appreciate his endless dedication to our community and are thrilled to nominate him for this prestigious honor.”
Phillips developed his authentic affection for those with disabilities by growing up in a family that provided daycare services for children with special needs. Along with his sports camps, Harrison has visited Twin Cities hospitals and worked with the Vikings and Timberwolves to educate young people on literacy and nutrition.
“It is very humbling to be selected as the Vikings 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee,” shared Phillips after learning of his nomination. “The support my teammates have shown since beginning my foundation’s work in Minnesota is remarkable. Blessed is an understatement. On a team filled with so many guys doing so many good things in their communities, for them to give me their vote means so much."
This is not the first time Phillips has been recognized for his impact in the community: He was the Bills' nominee for NFL Man of the Year in both 2020 and 2021.
The winner of the 2023 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award will be announced during the NFL Honors primetime awards special Feb. 8, during Super Bowl week. Each team's nominee will receive up to a $55,000 donation, with the winner receiving a $250,000 donation to the charity of his choice.
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