Russell Wilson's jersey patch, explained: Why Broncos QB wears Walter Payton Man of the Year logo

Russell Wilson has enjoyed a lengthy career as a starting quarterback. He's spent 12 years leading offenses, the past two for the Broncos and the first 10 for the Seahawks.

Fans watching Wilson play have grown accustomed to a C on the top right shoulder of his jersey. Starting in 2013, his second year in the NFL, he has been a captain of his teams. 

But in recent years, Wilson has had another patch on his jersey, one on his left shoulder. It is unlike most other patches in the NFL, as only a select few other players have worn the patch.

Wilson has had the jersey now for three seasons, his final year with Seattle and both campaigns now with Denver. What is the patch? Here's what you need to know.

Russell Wilson jersey patch, explained

Back in 2017, it became a rule in the NFL that winners of the Walter Payton Man of the Year would be able to wear a patch representing the distinction on the jersey for the remainder of their careers. The patch resembles the trophy earned when a player wins the award, and is put on the top left corner of the jersey.

Back in 2020, Wilson became the first quarterback since Eli Manning in 2016 to win the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. Two years later, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott won the award to join him as the latest QB to earn the honor.

The patch on the jersey is not the only recognition as part of the award. Each team picks a nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year, and when those players are nominated, they are able to wear helmet decals for the rest of the year to recognize their honor.

Walter Payton Man of the Year winners by year

Wilson is one of three active players to have won the award, and thus can wear the patch. Wilson, Prescott and Falcons defensive end Calais Cambell, who won in 2019, are the other active winners. 

Three times in the past, there have been multiple winners. In 2000, Derrick Brooks and Jim Flanigan won; in 2006, Drew Brees and LaDainian Tomlinson earned the honors; in 2016, Larry Fitzgerald and Manning won.