As the NFL world turns its attention to San Francisco for the 14th annual NFL Honors on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, fans are gearing up for a night that celebrates the league’s best-on and off the field. While the spotlight will shine on this season’s standout performers, it’s also a good time to reflect on the Pittsburgh Steelers' rich history at the NFL Honors, where several of their legends have taken home some of the league’s most prestigious awards.
This year’s ceremony introduces a brand-new accolade, the “Protector of the Year” award, adding another layer to a night that already includes MVP, Rookie of the Year, and Walter Payton Man of the Year honors. And while no current Steelers are finalists for the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, the franchise’s legacy at this event is undeniable.
Let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable moments for Steelers players at the NFL Honors since 1976-excluding Hall of Fame inductions and All-Pro nods-and revisit the impact they’ve had both on the field and in their communities.
Cameron Heyward: A Legacy Bigger Than Football
In February 2024, Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward stood on the NFL Honors stage not just as a dominant force on the field, but as a leader off it. He was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year, an award that goes beyond stats and sacks-it’s about heart, leadership, and service. Each team nominates one player, but only one walks away with the honor, and that year, it was Heyward.
The moment was made even more powerful when Prince Harry, Duke of Essex, presented the award. Heyward’s acceptance speech was raw and emotional, as he paid tribute to both his father-who wore No. 34-and the award’s namesake, Walter Payton.
“When I talk about my dad, he wore No. 34.
He’s been with me the entire time… But I know there was another No. 34 who was helping me. This man Walter Payton.”
It was a moment that transcended football. For Steelers fans, it was a proud reminder of the kind of leader Heyward has been in Pittsburgh-both between the lines and in the community.
This year, the Steelers’ nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year is outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, who continues the tradition of impact beyond the game.
T.J. Watt: Recognition for Relentless Greatness
After the 2021 NFL season, T.J. Watt finally got the recognition his play had long demanded. The Steelers’ star pass rusher was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, joining an elite group of defenders who’ve shaped the game.
Watt’s acceptance speech was both humble and revealing. “I grew up coming to this award show, I think I’ve been here five or six times, I never came home with hardware… But every time I left more motivated than the time I got here. And I promise this only motivates me more.”
His brother, J.J. Watt-a three-time DPOY winner himself-had the honor of presenting the award, making the moment even more special for the Watt family.
T.J. had previously been a finalist in 2020 and 2023, but 2021 was the year he broke through, cementing his place among the league’s most feared defenders.
Jerome Bettis: Power Back with a Purpose
In 2021, long after he’d hung up his cleats, Jerome Bettis was still making an impact. The Steelers nominated the Hall of Fame running back for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, recognizing his tireless advocacy work.
That year, Bettis took his message to Capitol Hill, speaking on Asthma Awareness Day to educate lawmakers and the public about the chronic condition that affects more than 17 million Americans. Bettis, who has asthma himself, used his platform to push for greater awareness and support-and the NFL took notice.
He was awarded the Walter Payton Man of the Year, adding yet another accolade to a career already marked by excellence and leadership.
Steelers’ Storied History at the NFL Honors
Pittsburgh’s legacy at the NFL Honors stretches back decades, with a number of franchise icons earning recognition for their play and their character. Here’s a look at some of the Steelers who’ve stood out over the years:
Walter Payton Man of the Year Winners
- Franco Harris (FB) - 1976
- Joe Greene (DT) - 1979
- Lynn Swann (WR) - 1981
- Jerome Bettis (RB) - 2021
- Cameron Heyward (DE) - 2024
NFL Most Valuable Player
- Terry Bradshaw (QB) - 1978
NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- Jack Lambert (LB) - 1976
- Rod Woodson (DB) - 1993
- James Harrison (LB) - 2008
- Troy Polamalu (S) - 2010
- **T.J.
Watt (LB)** - 2021
NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
- Louis Lipps (WR/RS) - 1984
- Ben Roethlisberger (QB) - 2004
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
- Kendrell Bell (LB) - 2001
This list reads like a who’s who of Steelers greatness-players who not only defined eras but helped shape the identity of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 NFL Honors will be broadcast on NBC, NFL Network, and streamed via NFL+. Actor Jon Hamm returns as host, bringing his signature blend of humor and Hollywood polish to the event.
One of the night’s most anticipated moments will be the reveal of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. While no modern-era Steelers are among the finalists this year, there is a familiar face connected to the team: Jahri Evans, a finalist for enshrinement, was recently hired as the Steelers’ assistant offensive line coach under new head coach Mike McCarthy.
The NFL Honors has become more than just a pre-Super Bowl awards show-it’s a celebration of the league’s best stories. And if history is any guide, the Steelers will continue to be a part of that narrative for years to come.