January 17, 2008

Congratulations! You have been selected as a JB Award recipient, an honor bestowed upon only a handful of active NFL players. As a winner of this prestigious award, you are automatically a finalist for the Byron “Whizzer” White Award , both of which are presented annually at the NFL PLAYERS Gala Featuring the JB Awards in Washington, D.C.

A partnership between the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), NFL PLAYERS and James Brown of CBS Sports “The NFL Today,” the Gala recognizes NFL players who exemplify leadership, dedication, and commitment to team and community. You will be honored for your achievements at this year's Gala on April 4, 2008, at the Washington Hilton in Washington , D.C. All proceeds from the event benefit Special Olympics DC (SODC), the sole provider of year-round sports training opportunities for 2,500 children and adults with developmental disabilities in the District of Columbia . In January 1995, all city-funding for SODC was permanently eliminated; the NFL PLAYERS Gala helps raise the money needed to remain in existence.

Each season, JB Award recipients are nominated by their teammates for their commitment to achieve excellence off the field through building better communities and stronger families. JB reviewed the submissions of the 32 players nominated and personally selected 12 players to receive a JB Award. One of these JB Award winners will receive the Byron "Whizzer" White Award , the NFLPA's highest honor; the award was established to acknowledge a debt of gratitude to one of their own. Byron “Whizzer” White - scholar, athlete, patriot, humanitarian and public servant - is the personification of the ideal to which professional football players aspire. His service to the nation as Justice of the Supreme Court brings honor upon every man in professional football. The winner of the Byron "Whizzer" White Award is selected by an independent panel of judges and will be announced at the Gala.

Sincerely,
Gene Upshaw
Executive Director, NFLPA
Chairman, NFL PLAYERS