Benjamin Watson named a finalist for NFL Man of the Year

For tight end Benjamin Watson of the New Orleans Saints, this year just keeps on getting better and better. Not only did he finish up the season with 74 catches for 825 yards and six touchdowns, but he's been named a finalist for something that's far more important than any statistic.

As ESPN.com reported, Watson has been named one of three finalists for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award. The award recognizes a player for stellar years, both on and off the football field. He's joined by Eli Manning of the New York Giants and Anquan Boldin of the San Francisco 49ers.

Watson has done many things off the field, including his "Big BENefit" shopping spree for 25 families. On top of that, he's a spokesman for the NFL's All Pro Dad campaign. Watson took to Twitter to speak about being named a finalist.

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It's great to see Watson receive the honor, and Saints fans will definitely be watching the Honors show, which is held on February 6. Best of luck to all the finalists, and each player is absolutely deserving of the award.

Jeff Smith writes about the NFL for FOX Sports. You can find him on Twitter @JSM8ith.