At an event dedicated to celebrating both athletic achievement and community service, Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner was named the 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year on Thursday. Using his acceptance speech at NFL Honors, Wagner shared how a three-word message from his late mother, Phenia Mae Wagner, shaped his journey and fueled his dedication to giving back.
The award highlights players who excel on the field while demonstrating exceptional commitment to their communities. Wagner’s story centers on a powerful phrase from his mother — “I got you” — which has anchored his life’s mission since its first impact during a difficult period in his early adult years.
The Quiet Strength of Wagner’s Father
Before focusing on his mother’s influence, Wagner emphasized the unwavering support he received from his father. He described his dad as a quiet figure who provided constant strength through challenging times, often without public recognition.
He was kind of the silent person in my corner that doesn’t get the love that he always deserves,
Wagner said.
Now a father himself, Wagner reflected on the sacrifices his dad made, including the unseen work and time spent away from home to ensure stability for their family.
There’s a lot of work that goes unseen,
he stated.
A lot of sacrifices that they make. And it made me appreciate the job that he did.
How a Mother’s Faith Became a Turning Point
The centerpiece of Wagner’s speech was his tribute to his mother, who he called his rock and the reason for his achievements. He recounted a critical moment after losing his job early in life when his mother’s belief in his potential transformed his outlook.
During that time, after being fired from a job he took to help support his family, Wagner’s mother reassured him, offering a different path forward.
She told me, ‘Nah. I really feel like you can make it to the league,’
Wagner recalled.
And she said, ‘I got you.’
These words shifted Wagner’s focus away from immediate financial concerns and toward pursuing his dream of professional football.
With his mother’s support in mind, Wagner committed fully to football, a dedication that became the foundation for his distinguished NFL career as one of the top linebackers in the league’s history.
Every time I try to help somebody, every time I see somebody in need, I say, ‘I got you,’
he explained.
Inspiring Others to Embrace Support and Unity
Speaking to an audience of fellow players, executives, and community leaders, Wagner encouraged everyone to adopt the spirit of offering unwavering support to others. He described the world as chaotic and emphasized the deep need people have for reassurance.
Somebody is going to be looking up, wondering if they have somebody that says, ‘I got you,’
Wagner said.
And I hope that I’m a light.
Although his mother passed away, Wagner said her presence remains a guiding force in his life and work.
Everything I do is for her,
he affirmed. She’s here through me.
Commitment to Community Through Charitable Efforts and Advocacy
Wagner’s dedication extends beyond football into meaningful charitable work, especially through the FAST54 Phenia Mae Fund he founded to honor his mother’s legacy. The fund supports stroke patients by partnering with healthcare organizations for prevention, education, and aid. This initiative transforms personal grief into a lasting impact on others facing similar challenges.
In addition, Wagner actively promotes social justice reform, mental health, and youth opportunities. Through programs like the NFL’s Inspire Change and his Tackle Everything Tech Tour, he has helped introduce young people to technology and entrepreneurship. His recent third tour in Washington, D.C., demonstrates his ongoing investment in the community he represents professionally.
Recognizing a Career of Excellence On and Off the Field
The Walter Payton Man of the Year award adds to Wagner’s prestigious football resume. As a 10-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro, he consistently achieved over 100 tackles every season. After 11 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, including a Super Bowl victory, he spent 2022 with the Los Angeles Rams before joining the Commanders, where he continues to provide veteran leadership.
Wagner’s multiple nominations for the award across previous years reflect sustained dedication to service alongside athletic success. He is the first Washington Commanders player to receive the honor since Hall of Famer Darrell Green in 1996, marking a milestone for the franchise.
A Legacy Rooted in Belief and Selfless Support
For Wagner, the award is less about personal acclaim and more about paying tribute to the woman who believed in him first and passing on her message of support. His gesture carries a deep significance:
Every time y’all see me do something you think is cool,
he said, just know that it’s her.
This enduring message of “I got you” underlines Wagner’s approach both in his community efforts and personal life, inspiring others to embrace compassion and solidarity amid life’s challenges.
