Ricardo Allen up for an NFL sportsmanship award

It’s fair to say that Ricardo Allen is one of the most engaging players on the Falcons. He’s made a habit of saying what we need to hear as fans when the rest of the team is spouting platitudes, and he’s continued to turn in solid performances week after week for the team. He is, in other words, a good player and a good dude.

Fortunately, the NFL recognizes that, as well.

Here’s the criteria for the award, which Allen will have a shot at winning over representatives from 31 other teams.

The award, now in its fourth year, honors the founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The award is presented to an NFL player who best demonstrates the qualities of on-field sportsmanship, including fair play, respect for the game and opponents, and integrity in competition.

Sounds like our guy. Hopefully he gets it.