NFL's My Cause, My Cleats campaign: A list of participating Jaguars players, coaches
Jaguars 2021 My Cause My Cleats
My Cause My Cleats is an NFL initiative that allows players, coaches and staff to represent organizations and charities through customized cleats. After this weekend's games, the cleats will be available to buy through NFL Auction with all proceeds going to the respective non-profits:
Cause: Youth Advancement
Organization: READ USA
Agnew comment: "This year through the 'My Cause, My Cleats' program, I am teaming up with the Youth Advancement Program in their effort to end the cycle of poverty through educational opportunities for kids. By providing books to kids and employment opportunities to teens, the Youth Advancement Program does an incredible job in helping youth realize their potential. As a kid, I did not always have access to books and I believe reading books is pivotal in the development of a child’s intellectual abilities and allows them to gain knowledge in a wide variety of areas.”
Cause: Hunger relief
Organization: Feeding Northeast Florida
Allen comment: “Having a family and raising three young kids, I realize that being able to make sure they get the food they need is a blessing. I want to share that opportunity with all of the needy families and children in Northeast Florida by partnering with Feeding Northeast Florida during the My Cause My Cleats campaign.”
Cause: Mental Health
Organization: Dakota Allen Foundation
Allen comment: “I know what it’s like to lose a loved one to the impacts of mental health. I am using the My Cause, My Cleats program to not only honor my brother’s memory but also to all the other individuals who we have lost due to mental health. I want to bring more awareness to this topic and work to provide support for anyone out there that is struggling with mental health.”
Dan Arnold
Cause: Disabilities
Organization: Gigi’s Playhouse
Arnold comment: “I’ve been involved with Gigi’s Playhouse along with my wife, Morgan, and we’ve seen first-hand the impact of their work in changing the way the world views Down syndrome and promoting acceptance for all. My cleats were designed by Zoey, a young family friend with down syndrome, and she did an amazing job. I can’t wait to wear them with pride on the field.”
Cause: Cancer
Organization: American Cancer Society
Austin comment: “My mother and grandmother were both diagnosed with cancer and motivated me to continue my football career this year. I will be honoring both of them as I team up with the American Cancer Society in their mission to save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for creating a world without cancer.”
Cause: Youth Education
Organization: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida
Bartch comment: “I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a mentor this year through the Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter in Northeast Florida. I am thrilled to partner with them for the My Cause, My Cleats initiative in their effort to create and support mentoring relationships that encourage kids to make good choices.”
Cause: Autism
Organization: Jericho School for Children with Autism
Beathard comment: To me, it’s important that everyone, no matter who you are, has access to a good education. I’m honored to represent the Jericho School on my cleats this year and support their mission to provide education for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Cause: Social Justice
Organization: National Urban League
Campbell comment: “I want all African-Americans and others in underserved communities to have access to the same resources as everyone else. The National Urban League promotes economic empowerment through education and job training, and I’m excited to showcase them in my first opportunity with the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats program.”
Cause: Community Outreach
Organization: Dreambuilders/iCann Foundation
Cann comment: “Being involved in the community has always been a priority for my wife and I, and it’s our goal to ensure that all kids have the resources and skills they need to succeed. I’m proud to represent the Dreambuilders/iCann Foundation with my cleats.”
Assistant coach Kyle Caskey
Cause: Youth Education
Organization: Caskey Family Foundation
Caskey comment: “My family is very involved in education across the country, and we fully believe that the best way to create positive change, hope and the empowerment of all individuals is to inform and teach the next generation through school, so the next generation can lead and fulfill the greatness that we have in all of us.”
DJ Chark Jr.
Cause: Mental Health and Youth Health/Wellness/Education
Organization: NAMI Jacksonville/MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation
Chark comment: “I have developed a passion for two causes that hit close to home since I’ve moved to Jacksonville a couple years ago. I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression during my time at LSU and have since partnered with NAMI Jacksonville to help reduce the stigma around mental health, especially in Black men. I have also worked with the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation and would like to raise awareness for the work they do to provide educational and athletic opportunities for youth in underserved communities.”
Andre Cisco
Cause: Anti-Bullying
Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida
Cisco comment: “I’d like to bring awareness to the ongoing bullying happening in schools across the country. Growing up, I experienced bullying and recognize the negative impacts it can have on an individual. Through the My Cause, My Cleats campaign, I am proud to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida in their mission to enable all young people, especially those who need them the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”
Chris Claybrooks
Cause: Lupus
Organization: Lupus Foundation of America
Claybrooks comment: “My cleats honor my mother and her daily struggle against Lupus, a disease that’s difficult to live with and a challenge to treat. I want to bring awareness to the Lupus Foundation of America and improve the quality of life for my mom and others battling the disease every day.”
Logan Cooke
Cause: Orphaned and Vulnerable Children
Organization: Zoe Ministries
Cooke comment: “This summer, my wife, Mary, and I partnered with Zoe Ministries to help fund the drilling of a water well in a remote village on the Kenya/Uganda border. The pictures we received recently of the finished well and the smiles on children’s faces shows the impact Zoe is making in Africa. I am honored to represent Zoe Ministries through the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats initiative.”
Doug Costin
Cause: Substance Abuse
Organization: Phightin’ Frankie Foundation
Costin comment: “Addiction has touched the lives of people close to me. I want to put an end to the stigma of addiction and promote the importance of providing assistance to individuals seeking recovery. I hope society will become more accepting of those impacted by the disease and work together to bring an end to it. The Phightin’ Frankie Foundation supports individuals facing addiction and I’m proud to represent them with my cleats.”
Rudy Ford
Cause: Autism
Organization: Jericho School for Children with Autism
Ford comment: “The work being done by the Jericho School is vital to children with autism that need access to an organization that can provide with them a good education. I am proud to support this great cause and an organization that believes everyone should have access to the education they need.”
Tony Gilbert
Cause: Domestic Violence
Organization: Betty Griffin Center
Gilbert comment: “Protecting women is so important to me, and I’m honored to represent the Betty Griffin Center during this year’s My Cause My Cleats campaign. The center offers protection and services for victims of sexual assault nearby in St. Johns County. They do a great job with their assistance and counseling services, and I’m hoping they receive further support and recognition during this campaign.”
Adam Gotsis
Cause: Men’s Mental Health
Organization: Black Dog Institute
Gotsis comment: “As a proud Australian, I’m honored to highlight the Black Dog Institute, a medical research institute in my homeland focused on mental health. The work they are doing is vitally important, which is why I’ve chosen them for my cleats.”
DaVon Hamilton
Cause: Pet Adoption
Organization: Animal Care and Protective Services
Hamilton comment: “When I first arrived in Jacksonville, I adopted my dog, Woody, through Jacksonville Animal Care and Protective Services. I think it is important to highlight the good work being done by this organization to educate people on the importance of pet adoption.”
Jacob Hollister
Cause: Pro Life
Organization: Live Action Organization
Hollister comment: “Every life is a miracle. I’m proud to support the Live Action Organization through my cleats.”
Myles Jack
Cause: Homelessness
Organization: Habitat for Humanity of Jacksonville
Jack comment: “Having a roof over your head provides more than just physical comfort. It gives you a space to grow as a family and create memories that last forever. HabiJax and its many volunteers has helped make the dream of home ownership a reality for thousands of families right here in Duval. I’m proud to keep that momentum going.”
Rayshawn Jenkins
Cause: Cancer and Indigenous People
Organization: Headstrong Foundation and National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition
Jenkins comment: “I’m looking forward to supporting two causes close to my heart during the My Cause My Cleats Campaign. The HEADstrong Foundation provides support to individuals and their families affected by childhood cancer, a cause that’s very important to me. I’m also supporting The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition. My mother is Chippewa, and I believe people should learn more and have a better understanding of the Native American experience in this country.”
Assistant coach Sanjay Lal
Cause: Ohio SPCA
Organization: Prevention of Animal Cruelty
Lal comment: “Animals are a blessing, with kind hearts and innocent souls… we should be their protectors. I’m honored to represent the Ohio Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in their efforts to protect and prevent the mistreatment of animals. I hope this campaign brings awareness to the growing need for caretakers of animals and how they all deserve a second chance.”
Trevor Lawrence
Cause: Education/Youth Empowerment
Organization: Long Branch Elementary
Lawrence comment: “I’m pumped to be able to represent Long Branch Elementary during the My Cause My Cleats campaign this year. Those kids were the first to welcome me to Jacksonville after I was drafted and gave me a taste of the spirit of this great city. No matter what challenges or obstacles that their students and families face, the school’s dedication to its students and the way they encourage them to be their best is why I’m supporting them this year and for years to come.”
Brandon Linder
Cause: Testicular Cancer Awareness
Organization: Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation
Linder comment: “I am proud to represent my best friend, Steve “Telly” Tellefsen, on my cleats this season. Ever since we were kids, football has played a huge role in both of our lives. I play this great game to honor him, and I look forward to helping raise awareness through the Testicular Cancer Foundation.
Walker Little
Cause: Military Appreciation/Support
Organization: Wounded Warrior Project
Little comment: “Both of my grandfathers were in the U.S. Navy, and it’s always been important to me to support the military every chance I get. It’s an honor to be involved with the Wounded Warrior project and use my platform to bring attention to the great work they do.”
Ross Matiscik
Cause: Autism
Organization: Rich Center for Autism
Matiscik comment: “This year, I am proud to represent the Rich Center for Autism for the My Cause My Cleats program. This cause is important to me because one of my closest family friends was diagnosed with autism more than 25 years ago and there were no services available to help him through his journey. Since the creation of the Rich Center, they have helped many families including my friend Christopher. I hope through this partnership we can spread awareness to autism and help individuals receive the help that they need.”
Lerentee McCray
Cause: Neighborhood Revitalization
Organization: Lift Jax
McCray comment: “I am honored to represent Lift Jax, an organization committed to bringing change and working to eradicate poverty right here in Jacksonville. I want to encourage all of our fans to look out for our neighbors, particularly those in vulnerable communities around town.”
Jaydon Mickens
Cause: Youth Mentorship
Organization: The Allison H.O.P.E. Foundation
Mickens comment: “I am honored to partner with the Allison H.O.P.E. Foundation, an organization from my hometown of Los Angeles. Our youth represent our future and we should do everything we can to encourage them to chase their dreams. As NFL players, we are great examples that anything is possible through hard work and dedication."
Andrew Norwell
Cause: Hunger Relief
Organization: Andrew Norwell Foundation
Norwell comment: “My foundation’s goal is to block hunger and ensure children in Ohio, North Carolina and Florida have access to healthy food where they live, learn and play. This cause is important to me and my wife, Brooke, because of all of the children and families I have met throughout my career that need better access to sustainable resources.”
Dare Ogunbowale
Cause: Intellectual Disabilities
Organization: Special Olympics
Ogunbowale comment: “The work that the Special Olympics does in giving kids and adults opportunities to compete in training and sports all-yearlong is especially important to me as I saw first-hand the impact it had on my older brother, Mario, who played basketball in the Special Olympics. I’m looking forward to continuing to support the organization as they help individuals with special needs to have fun and enjoy whatever competition they’d like to pursue.”
Shaq Quarterman
Cause: Youth Health/Wellness
Organization: Fuel Up To Play 60
Quarterman comment: “Growing up on the Westside of Jacksonville, nothing was more fun than being active and playing with my friends outside. I want kids to have the same experience I did and want to encourage them to exercise and eat healthy. I’m proud to represent Fuel Up to Play 60 with my cleats and inspire our youth to be the best versions of themselves.”
Roy Robertson-Harris
Cause: Mentorship
Organization: Big Brothers Big Sisterse of Northeast Florida
Robertson-Harris comment: “Throughout my NFL career, I have supported the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program. I just want to do my part as a professional athlete to be a mentor for young kids in need of guidance. I am proud to represent Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Northeast Florida on my cleats this season.”
James Robinson
Cause: Cancer
Organization: American Cancer Society
Robinson comment: “Cancer is a devastating disease that I have seen impact my close friends and family and I feel that using this platform to support the American Cancer Society is a great way to honor them.”
Brandon Rusnak
Cause: Athlete Development
Organization: Diamond Athletics
Rusnak comment: “High school sports had a huge impact on my life and I am passionate about working to give back and provide that same experience for other high school athletes. As a co-owner of Diamond Athletics, I am excited to continue my work alongside them in their quest to inspire children to go to the next level in any area that they pursue and push children to reach their full potential.”
Chapelle Russell
Cause: Military Appreciation/Support and Cancer Awareness
Organization: USO and American Cancer Society
Russell comment: “I want to honor my father’s memory after losing him to cancer. Cancer is a horrible disease and I want to bring awareness and support the American Cancer Society in their efforts to fight cancer. I also am using the My Clause, My Cleats program to shows thanks to everyone in the military who makes sacrifices every day for our country. My mother served in the military and my brother and uncle currently serve so I am honored to represent them through this program.”
Tyler Shatley
Cause: Youth Health/Wellness
Organization: Seamark Ranch & Sponsored by Grace
Shatley comment: “I’m honored to recognize both Seamark Ranch and Sponsored by GRACE on my cleats this year as a tribute to the great work both organizations do in providing a nurturing Christian environment for children in crisis. My family and I work with both organizations regularly and it’s a blessing to work alongside them in sharing God’s love with each and every child.”
Laviska Shenault Jr.
Cause: Single Mothers
Organization: Sulzbacher Village
Shenault comment: “The Sulzbacher Village here in Jacksonville is a really important facility that provides women, especially single mothers, and families affordable housing options. Not only does it give them somewhere to call home, but they also do a lot with job training and life skills classes. I’m looking forward to bringing awareness to all the good work they do in our community during the My Cause My Cleats campaign.
Dawuane Smoot
Cause: Youth Mentoring
Organization: Better Dads Society
Smoot comment: “Becoming a dad is one of the best things that has ever happened to me and it’s my responsibility to be the best dad I can be to my son, Ahmir and my daughter, Ahlani. The Better Dads Society teaches men to be the best fathers they can be and equips them with tools necessary to lead their family. That’s a goal I personally support, and I’m proud to honor such a great local, non-profit organization with my cleats.”
Assistant coach Nick Sorensen
Cause: Mental Health
Organization: Resilient Project
Sorensen comment: “The Resilient Project does a lot of important work to inspire and equip kids to overcome adversity and reach their goals. I appreciate their faith-based message and all that they do to help under-resourced kids. I believe everyone has a purpose and plan, and the Resilient Project helps them realize it.”
Jawaan Taylor
Cause: Youth Health/Wellness
Organization: The Jawaan Taylor Foundation
Taylor comment: “The House of God Church has been a blessing in my life in every possible way, and it’s my honor to support this house of worship on my cleats and through my own foundation. This church cared for me as a child, a musician and an athlete, and I hope the man I’ve become is reflective of the love of God they instilled in me.”
Daniel Thomas
Cause: Underserved Youth
Organization: Boys & Girls Club of Montgomery
Thomas comment: “As a professional athlete, I have learned that I can have a positive influence on our youth. Growing up, The Boys & Girls Club of Montgomery guided me into making good decisions. I am proud to represent them with my cleats this year.”
Laquon Treadwell
Cause: Empowering Youth
Organization: Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Florida
Treadwell comment: “Your local Boys & Girls Club not only provides a safe place for youth to go after school, but gives kids positive experiences through education and recreation. It’s an honor to represent such a great organization on my cleats and celebrate their role in helping local kids reach their full potential.”
Jay Tufele
Cause: Domestic Violence
Organization: Women’s Center of Jacksonville
Tufele comment: “I’m excited to represent the Women’s Center of Jacksonville to improve the lives of women right here in Duval. I hope to live in a world where women can feel safe and secure. Some of my family members have struggled with this very issue, and I want to help raise awareness to this ongoing problem through the My Cause My Cleats initiative.”
Assistant coach Tim Walton
Cause: Honor Your Name
Organization: Stay Ready
Walton comment: “Honor Your Name is a constant reminder to bring pride to our name. Our last name has a history, legacy and story within itself, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to hold the power of our name in how we lead, the choices we make and how we treat each other. I’m looking forward to representing Honor Your Name during the My Cause My Cleats campaign.”
Damien Wilson
Cause: Diabetes
Organization: American Diabetes Association
Wilson comment: “Diabetes runs in my family so the work the American Diabetes Association is doing to cure this disease is personal to me. I want my cleats to remind people that there are lifestyle changes you can make today that can help prevent diabetes such as eating healthy and exercising.”
Andrew Wingard
Cause: Pet Adoption
Organization: Jacksonville Humane Society
Wingard comment: “All four of the dogs I have had, Sophie, George, Lucy and Charlie have been rescued and I think all dogs deserve a loving home. My cleats support the Jacksonville Humane Society and their hard work in ensuring every animal finds a forever home.”
Matthew Wright
Cause: Special Education
Organization: Head Start
Wright comment: “I’m excited to represent Head Start, an organization dedicated to special education, during the My Cause My Cleats campaign this year. My mother was a special education teacher for 26 years, and it is important that these children receive the education they deserve and need. I am proud to represent them and the great work my mom did as a special education teacher."
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: NFL's My Cause, My Cleats campaign: A list of participating Jaguars players, coaches
