Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awuzie was named the recipient of their 2023 Ed Block Courage Award.
The award honors players who symbolize "professionalism, great strength and dedication," while also serving as role models in the community.
“I am very excited to receive the Ed Block Courage Award,” Awuzie said. “I have been in the league for seven years now and seen a lot of great players receive this award. I’m humbled to accept it on behalf of the Bengals, San Jose, Nigeria and all the people who I’ve honored and honor me.”
The seventh-year veteran suffered a torn ACL in Week 8 of the 2022 season. He returned for the regular season opener on Sept. 10.
Awuzie has 57 tackles (two for loss) and six passes defensed in 15 games this season.
“Although the injury kept Chidobe off the field, his leadership during his recovery process was on full display as he remained a valuable veteran voice in the locker room,” Bengals Head Athletic Trainer Matt Summers said. “He worked extremely hard in the rehab process, leaned on his faith and trust, and maintained a level of consistency that allowed him to bounce back from the injury to start the 2023 season. Chido’s ability to battle through adversity and his commitment to community service makes him the ideal receipt for the Ed Block Courage Award.”
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