LeSean McCoy teaches the next generation[![internal-link-placeholder-0]](http://bufbills.co/WL9fRz)
After a record-breaking season in more ways than one, running back LeSean McCoy took time this offseason to guide the next generation of football stars. The LeSean "Shady" McCoy Skills Camp took place at Escondido High School, where he led young athletes through passing, rushing and running drills.
While developing skills was the camp's top priority, McCoy also hoped to inspire the individuals in attendance.
"This is what it's all about," stated McCoy in an interview with Manny Alvarez from youth1.com. "It's about the new generation. We are giving them all the tools, knowledge that they need to be a good person as well as a good player."
Poyer adds another accomplishment to 2017 list
Add the Ed Block Courage Award to the list of accomplishments for safety Jordan Poyer. Over the weekend, Poyer attended the Ed Block Courage Award Ceremony held in Baltimore, Maryland. The award is given to one individual per team who exemplifies sportsmanship and courage. Poyer was nominated by his peers for his remarkable recovery and return to the football field after a season-ending injury in 2016. Poyer joined fellow recipients, including San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Marquise Goodwin and Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr, for a formal dinner and ceremony.
Dawkins and Alexander: Students on and off the field
Each year the NFL Player Association hosts a convention to provide current and former players with a one-stop shop for all updates on the NFL, seminars with influential business leaders and resources on topics such as branding, marketing and relationships. This year, linebacker Lorenzo Alexander, tackle Dion Dawkins and Bills Legend linebacker Cornelius Bennett, attended the meeting for a weekend of learning.
For Dawkins, the meeting provided the opportunity for him to learn more about the NFL and speak on his experiences in front of his peers.
Jones' mission continues
Wide receiver Zay Jones is on a mission to raise awareness for autism! Jones will be hosting a "Zay for Aces" event in Greenville, North Carolina on Saturday, March 24. Joined by fellow Eastern Carolina University alumnus Justin Hardy, Jones will help raise proceeds for the Aces for Autism foundation – an organization that helps families affected by autism.
Thurman Thomas receives honor
Bills Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas was honored at the Mental Health Association's annual dinner on Wednesday, March 14. As a parent of a child who faced mental health issues, Thomas has been influential in starting a region-wide discussion about mental health and its effects. At the event not only was Thomas honored, but his entire family was, including his daughter Annika. The family's efforts to start a discussion will continue at the Superhero Race and Wellness Walk this June.
"Mental health awareness should be a hot topic for everyone," said Thomas. "Don't wait till it hits you or your family to be motivated. Be an advocate and speak out. Encourage those suffering to get help and be an educated support system for them. "
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