The NFL will wait until November 2023 to honor U.S. military service members. But announced on Monday, the league has already jumped ahead to release its lineup for Salute to Service.
The Meaning Behind Salute to Service
This is the 12th consecutive year the league has honored the military.
Its purpose is to honor and empower active service members in every armed forces branch, retirees from each branch, and military families past and present.
The league works alongside some notable foundations that honor military vets and active duty personnel: The Bob Woodruff Foundation, the Pat Tillman Foundation, the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors, the United Service Organizations, and the Wounded Warrior Project.
What is the purpose behind each partnership? To raise money and awareness for those who served in the past and those who wear the uniform now. Per nfl.com, the league has now raised more than $65 million for every Salute to Service partner.
Teams will also customize their uniforms, helmet decals, and gloves for Salute to Service.
A Salute to Service award is presented annually to an NFL player most active in honoring the military and families. Head coaches are even up for the award alongside players.
Last year’s winner was Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera. Other notable winners include former NFL linebacker Donnie Edwards, Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator and former Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn, Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, former NFL defensive end Jared Allen, ex-NFL cornerback Charles Tillman, and the late wide receiver Vincent Jackson.