Former Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Steve Wright, who was the model used for what is now the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year trophy, died on Sunday at the age of 82, the team announced Tuesday.
Wright began his career with the Packers, appearing in 56 games with 13 starts for Hall of Fame head coach Vince Lombardi from 1964-1967 as Green Bay won three consecutive NFL titles starting in 1965 (one NFL Championship followed by two Super Bowls).
Wright bounced between four other franchises (New York Giants, Washington, Chicago Bears and St. Louis Cardinals) over the final five years of his pro career.
Wright found an unlikely place in league history when the Giants volunteered him as the model for a sculpture called “The Gladiator,” according to the Packers’ official website.
“The Gladiator Award,” which features Wright donning a helmet and cape, debuted in 1969 and the inaugural winner was Packers Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr.
The award was renamed NFL Man of the Year Award in 1970 and was changed to Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 1999 to honor the late Chicago Bears running back.
Regarded as the NFL’s highest honor, the NFL Man of the Year recognizes an NFL player for his exemplary community service along with his distinction on the field of play.
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman Arik Armstead was the 2024 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year receipient.
