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New Orleans Saints name Pierre Thomas team's 'Man of the Year'

New Orleans Saints running back Pierre Thomas has been a vital piece to the team's offensive puzzle in 2013. He's spent almost as much time helping others than preparing for games during his spare time.

His contributions on and off the field are why the Saints dubbed Thomas their "Man of the Year" and nominated Thomas for the league-wide Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.

Thomas has been a regular contributor for the Saints when it comes to school visits, hospital visits, holiday food and toy drives, NFL-sanctioned events, team corporate partner events, local community events and teammate foundation events. But Thomas also founded the iCan Foundation to help prevent childhood obesity and educate youth and adults about the ongoing and rising issues of childhood obesity.

On the field, Thomas has been a go-to weapon in the running and passing games. He leads the team with 500 rushing yards on 128 carries with one rushing touchdown. Thomas also ranks second in receptions with 64 catches for 441 yards and three TDs.

The Walter Payton Man of the Year award is given annually by the league honoring a player's volunteer and charity work, as well as his excellence on the field. Each year, a winner is selected from 32 nominees from the 32 different teams. The Man of the Year winner receives a $25,000 donation in his name to a charity of his choice. The other 31 finalists also receive donations in their name of $1,000 each to charities of their choice.

New Orleans Saints name Pierre Thomas team's 'Man of the Year' | NOLA.com