Retired San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Joe Staley is among the nominees for the Pro Football Writers of America "Good Guy Award," which goes to an NFL player whose qualities and professional style help writers do their jobs.
"Staley was simply called 'a gem' for his consistent availability to the media as well as the quality of his answers," wrote the PFWA. "The Pro Bowl left tackle retired from the NFL after playing 13 seasons, and he was named to the NFL's 2010s All-Decade Team."
The other nominees are retired Buffalo Bills linebacker Lorenzo Alexander, retired New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore, former Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, and Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons.
Another former Niner nominated for an award is long-time offensive line coach Bobb McKittrick, who is up for the "Paul 'Dr. Z' Zimmerman Award." That honor is a lifetime achievement award given to NFL assistants.
McKittrick passed away in 2000.
Also on the ballot for the "Paul 'Dr. Z' Zimmerman Award" is 49ers running backs coach Bobby Turner. He is in his 25th season as an NFL assistant and his fourth with San Francisco.
Click here to read about all of the Pro Football Writers of America's nominees for various awards.