Happy Tears: Dalton Risner Surprised With Walter Payton Man of the Year Nomination

Dalton Risner thought he was showing up to Invesco Field at Mile High to greet some kids, like he loves to do. Turns out, he was showing up to be surprised with the announcement that he's Denver's nominee for the prestigious award.

If you've noticed that icon on Russell Wilson's jersey, it is his Walter Payton Man of the Year Award patch. Every recipient of the award gets to wear that patch on their jersey for the remainder of their career. Will Dalton be the next Bronco to wear one?

Look at that guy, taking video of the inside of the stadium without spectators. The Denver Broncos' offensive guard really was "pumped" to be there. Little did he know that a few minutes later, he'd be crying on the field.

Dalton, from Northern Colorado's Wiggins, gets a quick briefing on "how the kids will be coming in, etc.. " Risner is still in the dark. He comments on how it's "all about the kiddos." His wife, in on the surprise, tries to hold back her enthusiasm.

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Then, a video begins on the jumbotron. It starts to become clear that no "kiddos" will be coming into the stadium; this day would be all about him.

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The video talks about Dalton, while growing up in Colorado, always dreamed of playing for the Broncos, and being a part of the Mile High magic.

Former Bronco, Peyton Manning, received the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 2006.

The Dalton video cuts to John Elway calling Dalton to congratulate him on being drafted to the team in 2019, after a great career at Kansas State.

The video goes on about how Dalton gives back to the community; including his visits to Children's Hospital, and creating his own foundation (the RisnerUp Foundation.)

Then, the big moment. They tell him that because of his efforts not just on the field, but off the field as well, the Denver Broncos have nominated him to be the 2022 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year.

Hear come the tears. Dalton's wife, Christine, is crying; Dalton, himself is crying. Then he notices a crowd coming in from behind them.

The crowd includes Dalton's mom, who gets a huge hug. Mom's crying, too.

Dalton just soaking it all in. It's a big day for the man.

Check out the full video: