Andrew Billings, defensive end for the Chicago Bears and a native of Waco, Texas, expressed gratitude to his supporters following the team’s loss in the NFC Divisional Round on January 18. The Bears fell to the Los Angeles Rams 20-17 in overtime, ending their pursuit of a deeper playoff run this season.
Billings, who graduated from Waco High School in 2013 and Baylor University in 2018, made significant contributions throughout the season with 31 tackles, six tackles for loss, one sack, and five quarterback hits, helping the Bears clinch a division title.
Billings Shares Appreciation for Support and Looks Ahead
Reflecting on the season, Billings spoke to KWTX about the community backing he received throughout the year.
“I just want to say thank you for all the support this season,”
he said.
“We had a great run, a lot of ups and downs but we pulled off a lot of good wins, and it makes it all the more better knowing I have all that support back home. Hoping for great things next season.”
Giving Back Through the Billings Family Find-A-Way Foundation
Beyond his NFL career, Billings remains committed to his hometown by supporting youth programs through his Billings Family Find-A-Way Foundation. The organization focuses on community youth development by running initiatives such as Bikes for Books, which motivates students to attend school regularly and maintain strong academic performance.
In its inaugural year, Bikes for Books distributed bicycles, helmets, and books to 72 students at J.H. Hines and Provident Heights Elementary Schools, with continued growth since then. Billings emphasized the importance of attendance, telling students,
“Attendance was important to me because as I told the students being at school is being successful. So, every time you learn something you succeed at something.”
Supporting Educators with Mini-Grants
The foundation also supports local teachers through the Huddy Up for Teachers program, which provided $250 mini-grants to 40 elementary educators in the Waco Independent School District. These teachers work at schools including Alta Vista, Dean Highland, J.H. Hines, and Provident Heights Elementary.
Billings, who himself attended Alta Vista Elementary, shared a personal connection to this effort.
“I wanted to do this because my aunt is a teacher, and I’ve watched her struggle to get all the materials she needs so I thought this would be a great way to give back to this community,”
he said.
Recognition for Philanthropy and Invitation to the Super Bowl
Highlighting his off-field contributions, Billings has been nominated for the 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year award, which honors NFL players for excellence both on the field and in community service. As part of this recognition, Billings invited David Martinez, a sixth-grade student from Waco ISD and one of his biggest fans, to attend the Super Bowl with him.
Martinez became acquainted with Billings through the Bikes for Books program, and they have remained connected through various foundation initiatives.
A Veteran Player with a Journeyman Career
Before joining the Bears, Billings built experience over nine NFL seasons, playing for multiple teams including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Miami, Kansas City, and Las Vegas. His time in the league showcases both his skill and resilience as a professional athlete while continuing to maintain strong ties with his hometown community.
Looking Forward
As the Chicago Bears and Andrew Billings regroup after a narrow playoff loss, his ongoing dedication to Waco and youth development highlights a positive influence beyond football. His hopeful outlook for next season and continued community involvement suggest that Billings’ impact will extend well past the playing field, inspiring both fans and future generations in Central Texas.
