Pernell McPhee wins the Ed Block Courage Award

The Chicago Bears have announced that outside linebacker Pernell McPhee is the 2017 winner of the Ed Block Courage award.

Every year, the Ed Block Courage award, “honors those National Football League players who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage.”

“The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, Inc. is dedicated to supporting the well-being of abused, neglected and at-risk children throughout our Courage House National Support Network for Kids. Through our partnership with the National Football League, the Foundation cultivates awareness at each Courage House and helps to raise funds for their programs and initiatives.”

Ed Block was a the Head Athletic Trainer of the Baltimore Colts from 1954-1977, but before that he earned a Purple Heart serving under General Patton in World War II.

Pernell McPhee met the media today, and while he wouldn’t comment on his availability for OTAs, he did say he was healthy. He also let it be known that he’s, “twenty five pounds lighter,” and “sexier now."

The weight thing would be a plus for his knees, as he was listed at 273 pounds last year, and the sexier thing is just good for him.

Once he is ready to get back on the field and join his teammates, he’ll bring the same intensity he’s known for.

From the Chicago Tribune.

"I'm going to be very excited but very aggressive at the same time," he said. "If you're going to start this, you've got to start it from the beginning. You've got to let guys know, man, this is not a playground. This is a job."