NEW YORK – Oct. 29, 2025 – The NFL and USAA, an official Salute to Service partner, announced this year's nominees for the Salute to Service Award presented by USAA. Each year, the Salute to Service Award recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff and alumni who make exceptional efforts to honor and support military and veteran communities.

"The Salute to Service Award nominees are extraordinary advocates for the military community, demonstrating the impact that individuals can have in the lives of those who serve," said Major General (Retired) Bob Whittle, senior vice president and head of military affairs at USAA. "USAA and the NFL proudly celebrate these deserving nominees for honoring, empowering and connecting with those who have worn our nation's uniform, and we encourage fans across the globe to join in showing their appreciation."

Fans have the opportunity to honor through action, helping determine the award's three finalists by voting for their favorite nominee. One vote per day for each nominee is permitted. The three finalists will be announced in January, and the recipient will be recognized at NFL Honors; a primetime awards special to air nationally during the week of Super Bowl LX.

To learn more about each nominee and cast your vote, visit NFL.com/SaluteFanVote – voting is open now until November 30.

The 2024 award recipient was George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers tight end. Kittle lends his platform and resources to uplift the military community by hosting military and frontline heroes at every game and donating over 400 tickets in the last six years. Through the Founding Hidden Pearls Podcast (HPP) founded in 2020, Kittle and his family amplify community stories involving veterans. Inspired by these stories, he and his family created an app offering free mental health resources to veterans, including the meditative practices he uses while playing. He has donated over $250,000 to military nonprofits and further highlighted military organizations through My Cause My Cleats, including the Pat Tillman Foundation, TAPS, Merging Vets and Players (MVP), Operation Freedom Paws and Operation Surf.

Kittle will join the Salute to Service Award panel recognizing the time-honored tradition of helping select the newest Salute to Service Award recipient. The Salute to Service Award panel members joining Kittle include Major General Bob Whittle (Ret.), SVP and Head of Military Affairs at USAA; Chad Hennings, Air Force Academy graduate and three-time Super Bowl champion; Jim Mora, Sr., Marine Corps veteran and former NFL head coach; and Christine Dorfler, NFL Chief Financial Officer and Army veteran.

For the past 15 seasons, the Salute to Service Award has been an integral part of the NFL's and USAA's year-round commitment to recognize the military and veteran community. As the presenting sponsor of the award, USAA, a leading provider of insurance, banking and financial services to U.S. military members, veterans and their families, will contribute $25,000 in the recipient's name to official aid societies representing all U.S. military branches. The NFL Foundation will match USAA's contribution by donating an additional $25,000 to the awardee's military non-profit charity of choice.

Through the league's Salute to Service initiative, the NFL and all teams from across the league unite to honor, empower and connect with service members, veterans and their families during Weeks 9-11 of the regular season. The initiative will come to life in NFL stadiums across the country through on-field branding and other game day activations.

Below is the list of nominees for the 2025 Salute to Service Award presented by USAA:

Arizona Cardinals

Elijah Higgins, Tight End

Growing up in a military household instilled in Elijah a profound respect for the sacrifices made by those in uniform. His father served with distinction for 28 years in the U.S. Air Force, specializing in the maintenance of Hercules C-130 aircraft.

In spring 2024, Elijah joined a USO tour to Kuwait, spending a week visiting military bases and connecting with over 100 deployed service members on six-to-nine-month rotations. His mission was clear: to show genuine care and appreciation, bringing moments of joy and connection to those serving far from home.

Elijah's presence uplifted the troops, strengthened the NFL's relationship with the Armed Forces, and powerfully advanced the Salute to Service platform.

Atlanta Falcons

Matt Bryant, NFL Legend

Throughout Matt's distinguished NFL career, he and his family consistently prioritized honoring the military community. He demonstrated unwavering support by engaging in team-led military appreciation events creating unique experiences for military families and personally visiting active-duty troops.

Matt's dedication to giving back was evident in his efforts to empower and connect with the military community; a cause close to his heart and one he embraced both during the season and in the off season. Despite the demands of raising seven children, Matt made it a point to spend his free time building meaningful relationships with service members and their families.

His commitment reached its peak through participation in two overseas USO Tours, one of the most immersive ways to connect directly with active-duty personnel.

Baltimore Ravens

Trenton Simpson, Linebacker

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson's father, Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy D. Simpson, completed 17 overseas tours as a dedicated U.S. Army Ranger.

Inspired by his upbringing, Simpson founded the Trenton Simpson Foundation in 2024 to support children and families of active-duty and retired service members. The foundation offers youth camps, mentorship, and game-day experiences – including its first event, Tribute to the Troops Tailgate in Baltimore.

Simpson also actively supports the Ravens' Salute to Service efforts, partnering with T.A.P.S. and hosting Blue Star Families at training camp. Through his foundation and team initiatives, he continues to honor the military community that shaped him.

Buffalo Bills

Khalil Shakir, Wide Receiver

Khalil's deep respect for the military is rooted in personal experience. His father, Attiyyah I. Shakir, served 24 years in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Master Gunnery Sergeant. Growing up in military communities across Hawaii, Japan, and Southern California, Khalil witnessed firsthand the sacrifices that come with service.

It was during his family's time stationed in Okinawa that Khalil first learned to play football, an experience that sparked a lifelong passion. His father later helped establish a youth football league on base, further strengthening their connection to the game and the military community.

Together with his wife, Khalil continues to give back through the Shakir Family Foundation, dedicated to animal rescue and supporting military veterans. They are guided by the heartfelt motto: "Dedicated to saving four-legged friends and supporting our heroes one paw at a time."

Carolina Panthers

Brady Christensen, Guard

Brady Christensen's respect for service members comes from a lifelong admiration shaped by his family's legacy. Both of his grandfathers served bravely in World War II and the Vietnam War. Their stories inspired Brady with a profound sense of duty to give back to those who have worn the uniform.

Brady honors veterans through his partnership with Veterans Bridge Home, supporting local heroes during physical therapy sessions at Veterans Park. He empowers active-duty service members by teaming up with the USO of North Carolina, offering encouragement and support at the Charlotte Douglas Airport USO center as troops transition between assignments.

Additionally, he connects with the military community through events like the Oorah Hooah 7-on-7 football tournament and other military-focused initiatives fostering camaraderie and appreciation through sport and service.

Chicago Bears

Travis Homer, Running Back

Travis' deep-rooted military family ties inspire his support for the military community. Through the Bears' Home Team Hand-Off ticket donation initiative, Travis has personally purchased tickets to every home game of the 2025 season, donating them to military families to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and Wounded Warrior Project.

TAPS is a national nonprofit offering care and comprehensive resources to those grieving the loss of a military loved one. Since 1994, TAPS has provided 24/7 support through peer networks and grief counseling free of charge.

Wounded Warrior Project is the nation's leading veterans service organization committed to the holistic well-being of post-9/11 wounded, ill, and injured service members. Travis's contributions reflect his heartfelt commitment to honoring and uplifting those who serve.

Cincinnati Bengals

Jalen Rivers, Guard

A rookie out of the University of Miami (FL), Rivers has been immersed in military life since childhood. His father, mother and stepfather all served in the U.S. Navy.

His mother and stepfather met in 2004 while stationed in Virginia aboard the USS George Washington at Naval Station Norfolk, and at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach. At the time, Jalen was nearly two years old. The family later relocated to Florida, where they continued their service at NAS Jacksonville. His stepfather eventually rose to the rank of Command Master Chief, serving in 42 different countries throughout his distinguished career.

Raised in a household grounded in discipline, Jalen was often called upon to uphold these principles while his mother and stepfather were frequently deployed throughout his childhood.

Cleveland Browns

Wyatt Teller, Guard

As the son of retired Army Reserve Major Rick Teller, Wyatt's connection to the armed forces is deeply personal and heartfelt. His commitment to military appreciation is evident throughout the season as he actively engages in team-led initiatives and community events that uplift and honor service members.

Wyatt prioritizes meaningful interactions with military personnel, especially organized team activities and training camp. When the Browns welcomed over 200 military guests, Wyatt personally connected with each attendee after practice expressing his sincere gratitude and respect.

In 2021, Wyatt extended his support to the Green Beret Foundation, an organization that provides vital assistance to Special Forces soldiers and their families. He played a pivotal role in presenting a $50,000 grand prize, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to those who serve.

Dallas Cowboys

Jake Ferguson, Tight End

Since being drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2022, tight end Jake Ferguson has made it a priority to honor, empower, and connect service members, veterans, and their families. He partners with USAA to visit local military bases and spend meaningful time with those currently serving.

Ferguson pays tribute to the sacrifices of service members by actively supporting the National Medal of Honor Museum (NMOHM) and its mission to inspire future generations of character-driven leaders. In 2024, he joined NMOHM President and CEO Chris Cassidy, Medal of Honor recipient and retired U.S. Navy SEAL Master Chief Britt Slabinski, and Washington Commanders legend Josh Morgan for a national Character Playbook LIVE event at AT&T Stadium. The event welcomed 900 students in person and thousands more virtually for a powerful discussion on commitment.

Denver Broncos

Luis Barajas, Partnership Marketing Coordinator

Luis Barajas leads key corporate partnerships and military appreciation initiatives. A U.S. Navy veteran, Luis served from 2013 to 2018 as a Fire Control Technician aboard submarines completing four overseas deployments on the USS Georgia. His exceptional service earned him honors including Blue Jacket of the Quarter and Junior Sailor of the Year.

After his military service, Luis earned a Business and Marketing degree from the University of Colorado, where he supported fellow veterans as a Student Veterans Association ambassador. He joined the Broncos in 2023 now managing partnerships with USAA and the Colorado Army National Guard. Luis drives impactful Salute to Service programming, including on-field recognitions and base visits, strengthening the team's connection to the military community.

Luis volunteers with Team Rubicon deploying disaster relief efforts like the 2021 Marshall Fire. His dedication to service—both in uniform and beyond—embodies the spirit of the NFL's Salute to Service Award, reflecting his commitment to honor, teamwork, and community impact.

Detroit Lions

Jack Campbell, Linebacker

Jack Campbell has demonstrated a strong commitment to Salute to Service through consistent community engagement. In 2024 and 2025, Campbell partnered with the Adaptive Warrior initiative led by the Stronger Warrior Foundation, helping renovate homes for local veterans, focusing on enhancing living conditions in housing communities to address veteran homelessness.

Following a team walkthrough at the Lions' practice facility in November 2024, Campbell met with families supported by the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), an organization that provides comfort, care, and resources to those grieving the loss of a military loved one. Campbell selected TAPS as his charity of choice for the NFL's My Cause My Cleats initiative.

In November 2023, Campbell also joined Lions staff, Detroit Lions Academy students, and Stronger Warrior Foundation volunteers in a day of service, further reinforcing his dedication to honoring and supporting the military community.

Green Bay Packers

Darian Kinnard, Guard

Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Darian Kinnard's deep respect for those who serve our country is reflected in his ongoing commitment to veteran-focused organizations.

Kinnard proudly supported the Wounded Warrior Project through the NFL's My Cause My Cleats initiative. Not only did he raise awareness and funds for the organization, but he also took the extra step of personally meeting veterans, offering them a behind-the-scenes stadium tour as he unveiled his custom cleats.

He is expanding his efforts to further strengthen his support for the military community. As part of Salute to Service this year, he will serve as the team's official spokesperson, participating in a press conference and engaging in several events designed to honor and uplift those who have served.

Houston Texans

Mario Edwards Jr., Defensive Tackle

For defensive tackle Mario Edwards Jr., the NFL's Salute to Service initiative holds deep personal meaning. An 11-year league veteran, Edwards has a strong connection to the military through his sister who served in the Army. Throughout her service, he was a steadfast source of support.

This past Memorial Day, he spent time with local veterans at a hospital, lifting spirits and forging connections through shared stories and experiences. In the activity room, he played games, signed autographs, and posed for photos.

Edwards is known for his authenticity and compassion, and engaging with veterans comes naturally to him. Whether it's hospital visits or community outreach, he's always among the first to volunteer when opportunities arise to give back, especially to those who've served.

Indianapolis Colts

Luke Rhodes, Long Snapper

Raised in a military household, Rhodes draws inspiration from his late father, Doug, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Marine Corps helicopter pilot who served for 22 years. He credits his father's service with instilling the discipline and responsibility that helped shape his football career.

Rhodes uses the Colts' ticket block program to invite active-duty service members, veterans, and their families to Lucas Oil Stadium and champions causes like Children of Fallen Patriots through My Cause My Cleats.

Off the field, Rhodes has organized special field visits to personally thank military members forging meaningful connections and showing his deep appreciation for their service.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Devin Lloyd, Linebacker

Lloyd's dedication to honoring and uplifting the military community goes far beyond the field. Raised in a military household, Devin's parents served a combined 40 years in the U.S. Navy, instilling in him a deep respect for service and sacrifice.

Lloyd has actively engaged with military families and personnel by visiting several bases, including Naval Station Mayport, where he immersed himself in shipboard life and operations. His commitment to giving back is evident through the free youth football camps he's hosted at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville and Fort Stewart in Georgia. These camps offered unforgettable experiences for children of military families while emphasizing the importance of health and teamwork.

Lloyd's continued visits to NAS Jacksonville reflect his genuine connection to service members and unwavering support for those who serve. His actions embody the spirit of the Salute to Service Award honoring, empowering, and inspiring the military community.

Kansas City Chiefs

Noah Gray, Tight End

Noah Gray continues to use his platform to honor, uplift, and connect with U.S. military service members and veterans. His commitment is especially evident through his partnership with Friends in Service of Heroes (FISH), a Kansas City-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting active-duty personnel, reservists, honorably discharged veterans, and their families.

Gray's relationship with FISH began in 2021, following a meeting with members of the organization. The encounter sparked an enduring connection leading him to provide service dogs and offer adaptive equipment that fosters resilience and independence. Beyond these efforts, Gray has offered his support during the holiday season and stood in solidarity with veterans navigating hardship.

Las Vegas Raiders

Najja Williams, Chief Engineer & Facilities Manager

A United States Air Force veteran and the Raiders' Chief Engineer of Facilities, Najja exemplifies the values of discipline, leadership, and selfless service that define both our Armed Forces and the Las Vegas Raiders.

Najja served with distinction for 16 years (1996–2012) as a Nuclear Missile and Space Facilities Superintendent and Military Drill Instructor. His commitment to service continues in his civilian role, where he leads with integrity and purpose.

One of Najja's most impactful contributions is revitalizing the Raiders' Flown Flags for Deployed Military initiative. Under his guidance, American and Raiders flags flown above the Intermountain Health Performance Center are ceremoniously folded by veteran Raiders staff and sent care packages to deployed service members around the world. Each package includes a certificate of authenticity, creating a meaningful and tangible connection between our team and those who serve.

Los Angeles Chargers

Jim Harbaugh, Head Coach

Head Coach Jim Harbaugh has made military appreciation an integral part of his leadership. Since taking the helm in 2024, he has turned that commitment into action – hosting T.A.P.S. families at practices, welcoming Gold Star families to games, and bringing team activities directly to military bases and naval carriers.

In his first year, Harbaugh took the Bolts' minicamp to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton where 5,000 service members and their families attended a team walk-through and meet-and-greet. Over 100 military children participated in an NFL Play60 event. Just weeks later, QB Justin Herbert, S Derwin James Jr. and Executive Director of Player Performance Ben Herbert joined Harbaugh in visiting the Navy SEAL's Silver Strand Training Complex where Harbaugh spoke to the SEALs and toured the facility as part of a day-long collaborative experience.

Ahead of this season, Harbaugh welcomed more than 2,500 military personnel, veterans, and their families to two training camp practices at the University of San Diego. He also invited members of the U.S. Coast Guard to take part in "Wise Words" – a tradition where distinguished guests share an inspirational message in the team's post-practice huddle. Later the same day the entire team visited the USS Abraham Lincoln, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, where hundreds of active-duty sailors observed the Chargers' walk-through, participated in drills, visited with players and coaches and showed the team around the carrier.

Los Angeles Rams

Andrew Whitworth, Legend

Throughout his playing career and as an NFL Legend, Andrew Whitworth has remained deeply committed to the Los Angeles community, especially to supporting military members and veterans.

In 2006, the same year he was drafted, Whitworth's college roommate and best friend, Lee Deal, was killed in action. That tragedy became a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served, and it fueled his efforts to honor and uplift the military community.

Whitworth exemplifies the core values of the NFL's Salute to Service initiative. Most recently, when wildfires devastated parts of Los Angeles in January, he visited the National Guard base camp in Malibu to boost morale among the 400 soldiers actively engaged in relief and recovery efforts at the heart of the crisis.

Miami Dolphins

Tom Wilson, Head Groundskeeper

Tom Wilson, Head Groundskeeper for the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, exemplifies the core values of Salute to Service.

From 1993 to 1997, Wilson served in the United States Marine Corps. After completing boot camp at Parris Island in South Carolina, his first duty station was Millington, Tennessee, where he joined the USMC Crash Fire Rescue unit. These service members are trained to respond to aircraft emergencies, extinguish fires, secure equipment and landing gear, perform pilot rescues and conduct aircraft inspections.

In 1994, Wilson deployed to Iwakuni, Japan before continuing his service at Cherry Point, North Carolina. When his military firefighting credentials didn't immediately transfer to civilian qualifications, he faced a delay in joining the fire academy. While he waited, Wilson sought temporary employment and found a new path that would eventually lead him to his current role in sports turf management.

Minnesota Vikings

Aaron Jones Sr., Running Back

Aaron honors current and former U.S. military personnel through his A&A All the Way Foundation, founded by Aaron and his brother and inspired by his own family's deep military roots and creating opportunities for support. His late father served 29 years in the U.S. Army, and his mother, served 27 years; both retiring as sergeant majors. His older brother, Xavier, currently serves in the U.S. Air Force.

Aaron's dedication to the military community connects families and young people navigating the challenges of deployment, relocation, and transition by providing resources and care. Aaron hosts annual galas to raise money for military families, and in August, Aaron hosted a back-to-school event focused on equipping students from military families with classroom supplies and encouragement they need to thrive.

Aaron spent time this spring on an NFL-USO Tour, where he visited U.S. service members stationed at military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and United Arab Emirates. Included on the tour were visits to Camp Buehring and Camp Arifjan, the latter of which held special significance for Aaron, as his mother had previously been stationed there.

New England Patriots

Fred Waggett, Security

Fred Waggett has been a steadfast member of the Patriots security team since 2009 and is a proud veteran who honorably served in both the United States Army and Navy.

Fred's quiet gestures of remembrance have become a meaningful tradition within the Patriots community. After each event, he thoughtfully places flowers at the POW/MIA seat as a tribute. On Memorial Day, he ensures fresh flowers are placed there, a powerful symbol of his reverence for those lost in service.

When the north end zone was renovated and the Row of Honor relocated, Fred saw an opportunity to preserve and extend its legacy. He secured the original POW/MIA seat and arranged for its permanent display in Foxborough with a commemorative plaque. This enduring symbol of sacrifice is now a public reminder of the courage and commitment of those who served and never came home.

New Orleans Saints

Kelvin Smith, Director of Network Operations

Kelvin Smith, a U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant veteran, is in his fourth season, leading I.T. operations and is the on-field liaison for Football Operations. He served eight years as a Tactical Data Systems Chief and Platoon Sergeant, leading network infrastructure training in combat zones. His deployments included Iraq (twice), Djibouti, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Australia, and Okinawa, where he installed and trained personnel on the Defense Messaging System in hundreds of Humvees.

Smith continues to serve his community through the Community Relations and Youth Sports Development initiatives. He volunteers in efforts such as rebuilding oyster reefs, mentoring students, coaching youth football, and supporting the homeless.

His military honors include the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary Medals, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a gold star, among others.

New York Giants

Chad Hall, Assistant Quarterbacks Coach

A former U.S. Air Force lieutenant, Hall's commitment to military outreach is deeply rooted in his own service. He played collegiate football at the United States Air Force Academy where he led the nation in all-purpose yards in 2007, earned Mountain West Conference Offensive Player of the Year, and was a Heisman Trophy candidate.

From 2008 to 2009, Hall served as a second lieutenant in the 421st Black Widow F-16 Maintenance Squadron at Hill Air Force Base in Utah demonstrating leadership and integrity in uniform.

Hall founded Pigskin Patriots, a nonprofit organization that empowers military families by hosting free football and cheerleading camps for their children. Through this initiative, he aims to instill character and values such as leadership, discipline, and integrity in the next generation.

New York Jets

Tony Richardson, Legend

Tony honors the legacy of service in his own family, including his father, Ben Richardson, a U.S. Army Sergeant Major, Vietnam Veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and Drill Sergeant, as well as his sister, Shon Richardson, a Master Sergeant who served for 28 years with four deployments.

During Fleet Week, Tony coached military flag football teams and even spent the night aboard a Navy ship while sharing meals, engaging in conversations, and hosting football chalk talks with service members. On September 11, he joined AmeriCorps, Commissioner Roger Goodell, and other NFL staff to pack meals for those in need.

Tony also participates in the Honorary Commander Program which aims to connect the local community with the missions of the armed services and raise public awareness of their policies and programs.

Philadelphia Eagles

Lindsay Hartig, Game Day Supervisor

Lindsay Hartig is a proud U.S. Army Veteran who graduated from West Point in 2006 and was commissioned into the Military Intelligence Corps. She rose to the rank of Captain, served 15 months in Iraq, and completed the Intelligence Career Course at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

Her military career included key leadership roles such as Battalion Intelligence Officer at Fort Stewart and Rear-Detachment Executive Officer at Fort Polk. Lindsay married her West Point classmate and welcomed their first child before her husband deployed to Afghanistan.

After 10 years of service, Lindsay transitioned to civilian life with a continued focus on service. She joined Team Red, White & Blue to support fellow veterans, by becoming a certified personal trainer and empowering postpartum Army spouses. She later served as Senior Advisor for Family Advocacy, championing initiatives that strengthen military families.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Patrick Queen, Linebacker

Patrick Queen's connection and appreciation for those who wear the uniform comes from friends who've served. Since signing with the Steelers in 2024, Queen has been a big part of the team's military outreach efforts.

This year Queen is supporting Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard during My Cause My Cleats whose mission is to empower veterans by ending the cycle of homelessness, and to assist all at-risk veterans to contribute to their communities. He supported 100 veterans by providing them with hygiene kits. He also spent time with the group serving them breakfast so he could personally thank them and get to know them.

He says: "This is the best country in the world," said Queen. "The freedom that we have, all of the stuff that we get to do that not most countries get to do and stuff. What I do is just a little token of appreciation."

San Francisco 49ers

Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers

Christian McCaffrey's commitment to the military community stems from a deep respect for service and a belief in supporting mental and physical wellness. Through the Christian McCaffrey Foundation, he honors and empowers veterans, especially those in Special Operations, with holistic health resources.

The foundation's flagship initiative, 23 and Troops, launched in 2021 and focuses on healing from post-traumatic stress using athlete-level care. McCaffrey advocates for veterans to be treated as athletes and receive the same elite treatment. The foundation has invested nearly $700,000 in military support, including $250,000 to REBOOT Recovery for trauma healing and another $250,000 to Resilience Code for personalized medical care.

The foundation also paid off holiday layaway balances for 515 military families. McCaffrey also actively participates in Salute to Service, connecting with active-duty members, veterans, and Gold Star families, and showcases 23 and Troops through the league's My Cause My Cleats initiative.

Seattle Seahawks

Brady Russell, Fullback

Since joining the Seahawks, Brady has actively participated in more than 13 military-focused events and engagements, positively impacting over 500 service members and their families.

Born on Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, where his father Randy was stationed, Brady was raised within a military environment. His brother, Captain Tyler "Friction" Russell, is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and currently serves as a Marine Corps Osprey pilot.

This season, Brady is coordinating a visit for his brother and unit to a Seahawks practice and a potential flyover during the team's Salute to Service game. Brady has also welcomed service members from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, further strengthening the team's ties to the local military community.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Brian Ford, Chief Operating Officer

Under Brian Ford's 19-year tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team has significantly expanded its Salute to Service initiatives, creating meaningful experiences for the military community at every home game.

Ford organized annual visits to MacDill Air Force Base and each year, he helps present the General H. Norman Schwarzkopf Military Family of the Year Award, which recognizes families who embody the values of service before self.

He continues to support the armed forces in his personal time as he was recognized as a U.S. Special Operations Command Medal recipient by U.S. Army General Bryan P. Fenton. He is also a graduate of the 927th Air Refueling Wing Honorary Commander Program, which offers civilians a firsthand look at the mission and capabilities of the U.S. Air Force.

Tennessee Titans

Darrell Baker Jr., Cornerback

Growing up in a military household, Baker witnessed firsthand the sacrifices required of those who serve. His parents are both retired U.S. Army veterans who completed deployments in Baghdad, Iraq, Kuwait and other countries overseas. During his childhood, there were long stretches when one or both parents were away as his father served as a contractor and his mother worked as a cook in the Army.

The family eventually settled in Georgia, where his parents were stationed at Fort Benning and Fort Gordon. The resilience, discipline, and perseverance instilled in Baker through his upbringing became the foundation for his success on and off the field and motivated him to give back to military families like his own.

At last year's Salute to Service game, Baker's parents were honored as the 12th Titan, a symbolic recognition of their dedication and sacrifice. Additionally, through the TAPS program, Baker wore a helmet decal that included the initials 'NM' to honor fallen soldier CW2 Natalie Wamsley, whose family he hosted at the Titans practice facility.

Washington Commanders

Zach Ertz, Tight End

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz exemplifies the core values of the NFL's Salute to Service initiative through his unwavering dedication to honoring, connecting with, and empowering service members, veterans, and their families.

This year, Ertz represented the Commanders at a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Joined by leadership from the Military District of Washington and soldiers from the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Regiment, Ertz paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America's veterans during this solemn, time-honored tradition at one of the nation's most sacred military sites.

Ertz also took part in a USO Pack4Troops event held at the Commanders' practice facility. Alongside team staff and volunteers from partner organizations, the veteran tight end helped assemble 2,000 care packages destined for deploying service members at USO airport centers.