Former Penn State lacrosse player-turned Buffalo Bills’ receiver Chris Hogan is one of 32 players nominated to the NFL’s Sportsmanship Award list.

The award was announced by commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday, as the NFL aims to increase its focus on sportsmanship among its players. Members of the award’s panel will include some notable figures, including Hall of Fame running back Curtis Martin, former Atlanta Falcons’ great Warrick Dunn, and former Seattle Seahawks’ and Philadelphia Eagles’ fullback Leonard Weaver.

Hogan has been enjoying a breakout 2014 campaign, recording 36 catches for 374 yards and four touchdowns, while leapfrogging Buffalo’s high profile free agent acquisition Mike Williams on the depth chart and establishing himself as the team’s primary slot receiver.

“While we enjoy the incredible performance of NFL players on the field, we must never forget a core value of football that transcends all levels of play and exemplifies the complete athlete: sportsmanship,” said league executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent in a statement. “This award will recognize those who never hesitate to show that excellence in football is not achieved without respect for the game, for their opponents, for the officials and for the fans.”

Hogan joins an elite cast of players on the award list, including Cardinals’ wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, Broncos’ defensive end Demarcus Ware, and Lions’ wide receiver Calvin Johnson, along with former Bills’ teammate and safety George Wilson (currently with the Tennessee Titans).

The winner of the NFL’s Sportsmanship Award will be announced on January 31 — the eve of the Super Bowl — during the “NFL Honors” show, televised nationally. The winner receives a $25,000 donation to a charity of his choice.

Congratulations Chris on being nominated, and for setting a great example for young athletes around the country, while making Penn State nation proud!

About the Author

David Abruzzese

David is a senior from Rochester, NY, nestled right in beautiful Western New York. He is majoring in Broadcast Journalism, and as an avid sports fan, he passionately supports the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. He is the first Penn Stater from his family, and couldn’t be prouder to represent Penn State University. In his free time, he likes to alpine ski, and play golf. You can follow him on Twitter @abruz11, and can contact him via email at davidabruzzese@onwardstate.com.

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