Nationwide, National Football League Extend Partnership with Multiyear Renewal

Nationwide and the National Football League have announced the multiyear extension of their partnership that continues to position Nationwide as an official sponsor across key insurance and financial service categories, including auto, home, life, business, agribusiness, pet insurance and retirement planning. 

The centerpiece of the renewed agreement is Nationwide’s continued role as presenting sponsor of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, an honor that recognizes NFL players for outstanding community service and excellence on the field. This year’s 32 club winners will be announced by the NFL on Thursday, Dec. 4.

Since aligning with the league in 2014, Nationwide has worked with the NFL to elevate the platform that honors the legacy of Walter Payton and amplifies the charitable efforts of NFL players whose work is inspired by Walter’s enduring example.

“Nationwide’s partnership with the NFL enables us to elevate our brand and drive business growth by promoting our insurance and financial services products with the league’s hyper- engaged and passionate fan base,” said Nationwide Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Ann Bair. “We’re also looking forward to continuing our presenting sponsorship of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award and shining a spotlight on the impact the players are making off the field. This endeavor aligns with Nationwide’s deep commitment to giving back to the communities where we live and work.”

Over the course of the partnership, Nationwide has contributed more than $2.3M to charities supported by nominees and winners. Initiatives like the Charity Challenge and other campaigns have expanded fundraising opportunities and awareness for these causes, but sharing the personal stories of the nominees also remains a priority.

A new, annual component of the partnership that will begin during the 2026 season is presenting sponsorship of a one-hour broadcast special that will highlight Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominees and how they are uniquely impacting their communities.

“We’re thrilled to further our relationship with Nationwide—a storied, impactful partner of the NFL for more than a decade,” said NFL Senior Vice President of Global Sponsorship Tracie Rodburg. “Together, we drive a significant tradition that celebrates our players making an inspiring difference across their communities, and we look forward to continuing this with Nationwide in the seasons ahead.”

The 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year national winner will be announced during the NFL Honors broadcast, airing nationally on Thursday, Feb. 5 ahead of Super Bowl LX. Nominees will also participate in special Super Bowl week events, including local community event in the San Francisco Bay Area, attendance at NFL Honors, and on-field recognition during the championship game.

A moment to recognize the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year is also integrated into the NFL Draft. 

In addition to the partnership at the league level, Nationwide also currently has partnerships with 16 NFL clubs.