VIDEO

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STORY: DAVIS FINALLY FINISHES FIRST

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SPEECH TRANSCRIPT

“I just want to start out by thanking God for being who he is and how amazing he’s been in my life.

I want to thank the Carolina Panthers and the entire organization for all they’ve done for me. Coach Rivera, (Panthers Community Relations Coordinator) Sarah Szabo, they’re a big part of why I’m still standing here today.

Next, I’d like to thank my beautiful wife, Kelly Davis. There’s a lot that I’ve had to deal with, and she’s been there for me. Through everything that I’ve gone through, injuries, everything. So often in my career, I’ve been the guy that’s came up just short. But receiving this award tonight signifies and capitalizes everything that I’ve been able to accomplish, all that I’ve had to go through.

I want to say to Aaron, to Anquan, and the 29 other guys, congratulations. You’re all winners. You’re all winners.

To the guys in this league, man, I just want to say to you — let’s take charge. Dare to be different. We’re a village. I talked about it in the video. Let’s step up and be a village of guys that make a difference. Let’s change this world. We’re well compensated for what we do. Let’s show these kids how much we care about them. Let’s give the media something positive to talk about instead of always bashing our league.

I also want to thank the Payton family. Miss Connie, Jarrett, Brittney. You guys have been amazing, and it’s been nice to get to know you over these two years.

My board members, Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation board. You guys are truly the reason why we are able to accomplish so much.

Thank you, God bless you, good night.”

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