Prince Harry Makes Surprise Appearance at 2024 NFL Honors in Las Vegas

Prince Harry is having a very busy week.

After a quick trip to the UK to see his father, King Charles, following news of Charles's cancer diagnosis, the Duke of Sussex made a surprise appearance at the 2024 NFL Honors in Las Vegas last night. He was there to present the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award, which was given to Cameron Heyward of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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Prince Harry presents the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award at the 13th Annual NFL Honors.Perry Knotts - Getty Images

"Good evening, NFL," Harry began his speech. "It's an honor to be with you all tonight. I really love how you stole rugby from us and you made it your own. Instead of passing it backwards, just pass it forwards. Why not wear pads and a helmet? Of course, have an offense and defense, that makes sense. And why not take a breather every 15 seconds? And you know what? Instead of a 10-month season, let's just make it 18 weeks. Genius."

He continued, "All kidding aside, all you guys do on and off the field is truly remarkable. You are role models for millions in the way you carry yourselves and in the way you give back. This final award, the highest honor, is all about serving your community. And there's one special man we'd like to pay tribute to now. A player who goes above and beyond and whose extraordinary commitment to helping others is a reflection of his own story."

The Duke of Sussex then gave the award to Heyward, who said as soon as he got on stage, "Oh man, Prince freaking Harry! Man, I'm in shock. That's Prince Harry!" In his acceptance speech, Heyward said, "I continue to keep doing the work, as I will. This award is great, and I appreciate it, but I understand I’ve got more work to do. I’ve got to make sure I represent this man every day going forward."

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Cameron Heyward, Prince Harry, and Keegan-Michael Key.Perry Knotts - Getty Images

After the show, the two posed for portraits, along with host, comedian Keegan-Michael Key.

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Heyward seemed overjoyed to meet the Prince.Todd Rosenberg - Getty Images

It's unclear if Prince Harry's appearance in Las Vegas last night means he'll stay in town to attend the Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday, where the Kansas City Chiefs take on the San Francisco 49ers. In 2022, Prince Harry attended the big game with his cousin, Princess Eugenie.

Beginning on February 14, Harry and Meghan will be in Canada for events ahead of the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler. There, they will carrying out three days of engagements to mark one year to go until the first-ever winter edition of the competition.


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