It is hard to believe, but the 2024 NFL regular season is more than half over, and that means it is time to start talking about postseason awards for individual players. One of those awards is the 11th annual Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award. This award is presented to a player for their on-field sportsmanship, including fair play, respect for the game and opponents, and integrity in competition.

The Pittsburgh Steelers nominated special teams captain Miles Killebrew as their nominee, but who will win the award for the entire league is anyone’s guess. One player from every team is nominated for the award, and eight finalists, four in each conference, will be selected by members of the NFL Legends Community. Current players will have the final say when the eight appear on their Pro Bowl Games ballot under NFL Sportsmanship Award. The winner is announced during the NFL Honors show the night before the Super Bowl.

As for the name of the award, the winner was named after Rooney because of the class he brought to the NFL and his approach that always had sportsmanship at the forefront.

Earlier this year Killebrew was voted as the special teams captain for the third straight year by his teammates on the 2024 roster, something he takes great pride in because of his love and respect for the game and what comes with it.

“It’s an honor. There’s no other way to describe it,” said Killebrew of being a captain. “Definitely something I don’t take for granted. To be voted for by my peers here in the locker room means a lot. I take great responsibility for it moving forward. I’ve got to be a huge support for my guys on team as well.

“When coach said my name, it felt just as exciting as the first time. I was completely thrilled and humbled. It’s definitely a moment for me to step up and be what my teammates need me to be, which is someone who holds the standard.”

We wish Killebrew all the best in the next step of this process, but I’m sure in the meantime he is more focused on the upcoming game in Week 13 vs. the Cincinnati Bengals in Ohio. Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they get ready for the stretch run of the 2024 regular season.