Former BYU Heisman Trophy winner, Super Bowl champion, and football legend Steve Young received the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY Awards, recognizing his extraordinary commitment to serving others as well as his tireless advocacy for veterans, military families, and underserved communities. Young was joined on stage by other veterans who had competed in the Invictus Games, and his acceptance of the prize garnered a long standing ovation, emphasizing his lasting effect beyond the gridiron.
Young is best known for his spectacular career with the San Francisco 49ers and his breakthrough exploits at BYU, where he won the Heisman Trophy and led the Cougars to unprecedented triumph. He has always represented leadership, excellence, and honesty. But it is his work off the field that has garnered him this coveted award, which bears the name of Pat Tillman, a former NFL star who gave his life while serving in the United States Army.
For almost two decades, Young has dedicated himself to causes that embody Tillman’s ethos of selflessness and service. Through his Forever Young Foundation, he has helped youngsters experiencing physical, emotional, and financial issues, funded educational projects, and advocated for programs that pr
ovide mentorship and opportunities to at-risk youth. But his most profound impact has been his unrelenting support for war veterans. Young has collaborated extensively with veteran organizations, led fundraising campaigns for wounded warriors, and personally interacted with military members and their families to make them feel recognized, supported, and cherished.
On this night, Young stood alongside Invictus Games veterans — athletes who had overcome injury, tragedy, and hardship to proudly represent their countries — and his message was clear: genuine greatness is found in bringing others up. “I’m humbled to stand here tonight, not as a quarterback or an athlete, but as a servant to causes far bigger than myself,” Young said, his voice full with emotion. “The Pat Tillman Award isn’t about me.” It’s about commemorating people who give of themselves on a daily basis—heroes who inspire us, remind us of the strength of the human spirit, and demonstrate what true service means.”
Young went on to praise the veterans who stood behind him, as well as the millions of others who served with honor and courage. “You are the real champions,” he remarked, nodding toward the Invictus participants, “and I am in awe of your resilience, dedication, and sacrifice.” We owe you a debt that we will never be able to repay, but I commit to continue serving, supporting, and standing with you.”
The audience erupted in applause, with many visibly impressed by Young’s candor and humility. The event served as a reminder that, in sports and in life, what matters most is the impact we have on others. Steve Young’s receiving of the Pat Tillman Award for Service solidifies his legacy not only as a football legend, but also as a humanitarian – a guy who, like Tillman, has dedicated his life to something bigger than himself.