NEW ORLEANS - Saints tight end Benjamin Watson is having just as big a year off the field as he did on it.

Watson was named as a finalist for the NFL Man of the Year Award, named for and given in honor of former NFL Hall-of-Famer Walter Payton.

The award is given out each year to a player who achieves major accomplishments both off and on the field. Each team nominates a player from their roster for the award.

Watson joins NY Giants QB Eli Manning and San Francisco 49ers WR Anquan Boldin as finalists for this year’s award.

"I don’t take this lightly,” Watson said. “I consider myself blessed and fortunate to have been able to play in the National Football League for 12 years. I feel that reaching out to and helping others in any way, shape or form is part of our mission as NFL players.”

Watson was a natural choice for the nomination as he is an outstanding leaders in the locker room, as a team captain and out in the community, according to Saints Executive Vice President and General Manager Mickey Loomis.

“Benjamin has taken his role as a team captain very seriously and has been a great mentor, resource and role model to younger players in our locker room," Loomis said. "In addition, his work through his foundation, commitment to helping those in need and as an advocate against domestic violence make us proud to recognize him with the team honor and nominate him for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.”

The winner of the NFL Man of the Year Award will be announced during the 5th Annual NFL Honors awards show, a two-hour primetime special that will air nationally on Feb 6, the night before Super Bowl 50, from 8-10 p.m. Check your local listings to see where the show will air.