Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey has been named the team's nominee for the 10th annual NFL Salute to Service Award, presented by USAA.

The Salute to Service Award recognizes NFL players, coaches, personnel and alumni who demonstrate an exemplary commitment to honoring and supporting the military community, as nominated by NFL clubs.

Finalists will be announced in January, with the winner being recognized at NFL Honors, a primetime awards special to air nationally the week of Super Bowl LV.

"I've always had a huge respect for the military," McCaffrey said. "I have a little bit of military background on my dad's side, so growing up, it's just some of the values instilled in me at a young age. Without the men and women who defend our country, I wouldn't be able to play the game that I love so much."

Through his personal involvement over the past four seasons, McCaffrey has partnered with military service organizations USO of North Carolina and Veterans Bridge Home in a variety of morale-raising and fundraising efforts.

"I want to get involved on the medical side of it for troops that come home and make sure their healthcare is top of the line," McCaffrey said. "I get treated every day, and those guys deserve the same kind of care when they get back. They deserve a good life when they come back. I'd love to get involved with that in the future."

As the presenting sponsor of the Salute to Service Award, USAA, a leading provider of insurance and other financial services to U.S. military members, veterans and their families, will contribute $25,000 in the recipient's name to the official aid societies representing all five military branches. The NFL will match USAA's contribution of $25,000, which will be donated to the award recipient's military charity of choice.

"The 2020 nominees for the 'Salute to Service Award presented by USAA' demonstrate the depth and widespread appreciation and support for the military community across the NFL," said Tony Wells, USAA Chief Brand Officer and former Marine officer. "During a trying year for all Americans, each of these nominees deserves this moment of special recognition for their passionate support of those who chose to serve. We congratulate these nominees and say thank you to America's military families."