Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins was honored with the key to the city Friday by Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon.
The recognition celebrates Dawkins’ extensive charitable work through his foundation, Dion’s Dreamers.
From gift drives and charity talent shows to his signature “Shnowday” field trips, Dawkins’ efforts have positively influenced hundreds of children and families throughout Western New York.
Dion Dawkins Grateful to be Honored For ‘Protecting People’
Dawkins was emotional during his speech at honorary ceremony. He said he feels appreciated in Buffalo for “doing what I do best,” which is “loving on people” and “protecting people for a living.”
There is no denying the latter quote as Dawkins is responsible for protecting reigning MVP Josh Allen‘s blind side on the football field.
“Buffalo, you are truly special,” Dawkins said. “You guys are my family. You guys have my heart. And I hope that I have you guys forever.”
Dawkins, 31, is signed with the Bills through the 2027 season after signing a $60 million contract extension last year.
“This key represents something so much bigger than football to myself,” said Dawkins. “It represents every kid in the city who dares to dream big, who works hard and who believes they can make a difference.”
Dion Dawkins Knew Buffalo Was Home From Day 1
Dawkins discussed receiving a key to the city ahead of the ceremony during media availability earlier this week. He joked that he wants to know what the key unlocks, but was grateful and thankful for the honor.
“After I got my first contract here, I was like this is forever,” Dawkins said. “I’m gonna be here. I’m gonna grow a family. I’m going to be a part of this forever.”
Dawkins said he’s happy to represent the big men, who traditionally don’t receive as much fanfare as the skill players.
“I’m a lineman,” he said. “I’m not a receiver, not a running back, not a quarterback. I’m not one of the skinnies. I’ve been told, that offensive lineman are impossible to market. I’ve always been against that grain and Buffalo has embraced me since Day 1.”
Bills Coach and Teammate Say Honor is Well Deserved
Head coach Sean McDermott also addressed Dawkins receiving the honor.
“It makes me smile, it really does,” McDermott said. “The impact goes beyond football and playing well on the football. It’s what you can do in a community and how you can impact the community in a positive way — providing hope and your time.
“He’s remarkably full of joy and wisdom and he’s able to relate to a lot of different types of people, which is a great quality in life.
“The footprint you leave on a city and community lasts forever. I’m super proud of the way he’s handled his role and his platform and the responsibility that comes with it.”
Fellow offensive lineman David Edwards said the honor is “so well deserved.”
“I think it’s hard to put into words what (Dawkins) means to the community,” Edwards added. “I know it means a lot to him.
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