John Michael Schmitz Nominated for 2024 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award

New York Giants center John Michael Schmitz has been nominated for the eleventh annual Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award. This prestigious award, created in 2014 to honor the founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pro Football Hall of Famer Art Rooney Sr., recognizes players who exemplify fair play and respect for the game and their opponents.

Schmitz has demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship both on and off the field since starting his NFL career with the Giants last season. He has been active in supporting the Homewood-Flossmoor United Football and Cheer program, which helped him develop his love for the sport. Earlier this year, Schmitz shared his thoughts on stepping up when the team needs a leader, emphasizing the importance of true leadership during adversity.

The selection process involves a panel of retired players, including Warrick Dunn, Larry Fitzgerald, Curtis Martin, and Leonard Wheeler, who will choose eight finalists (four from each conference). These finalists will then be presented on the Pro Bowl Ballot under the NFL Sportsmanship Award category for players to vote on in December. The award winner will be announced in New Orleans, Louisiana, in February 2025 and will receive a $25,000 donation to a charity of his choosing.