Heyward said his commitment to giving back honors the legacy of his father, former NFL player Craig “Ironhead” Heyward, who died from brain cancer at age 39. Cam Heyward’s foundation tackles childhood hunger, illiteracy, and cancer, among other efforts. The athlete hosts Cam’s Kindness Week, sponsors scholarships, and launched Craig’s Closet to provide suits for boys and men.
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During his speech, Heyward encouraged fellow athletes to “keep being the positive role models you are.” He urged youth who are struggling to remember that he “[has] your back.” And he thanked the Lord, saying he wouldn’t be where he is today without God.
Heyward, who has played his entire pro career with the Steelers, said, “I’ve always thought God and my dad had a plan for me, and I’m living it right now.”
. From the first honoree to the last, many of the football players praised Jesus in their speeches, crediting God for making their high-profile careers possible.){kind=link}