NFL EXPANDS WAY TO PLAY INITIATIVE

Today, the NFL announced the expansion of the Way to Play initiative, which hands out weekly awards to recognize current NFL players, high school tackle, NFL FLAG and Canadian youth players who demonstrate excellence in playing technique. This initiative helps to protect players from unnecessary risk and foster culture change across all levels of the sport.

"Expanding the Way to Play Award to NFL FLAG and Canada underscores that football is for all and the game is even more fun when using the proper techniques that protect players and promote football development," said Troy Vincent, NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations. "Through the award, football fans and players from around the world can see real time examples of excellent football fundamentals and skill development."

This year, one high school player each week from Canada will be recognized in Weeks 2-11 of the NFL season. Submissions will be received through Hudl and voted on by NFL Canada's Football Development Advisory Committee. Each recipient will be announced on NFL on CTV Live and receive a $1,500 CAD equipment grant for their school.

The NFL will recognize one FLAG player each week for demonstrating proper playing technique. Players are evaluated on flag pulling, rushing, footwork, discipline and vision. Developing proper playing technique and good habits at the NFL FLAG level prepares players to excel in FLAG or make the transition to tackle. Each recipient will receive a $1,500 grant.

For the fourth year, this award will recognize NFL players who exemplify proper technique to make impactful plays. Each recipient of the Way to Play Award will receive a $2,500 equipment grant through USA Football to be awarded to the local youth or high school football program of the player's choosing.

In partnership with Hudl and in its third year, the award will honor one high school football player weekly for demonstrating exceptional in-game playing technique. The high school award recipient will be announced on NFL Network each Saturday morning, and the school of each honoree will receive a $1,500 equipment grant through USA Football.