What started with a big donation from Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey snowballed into much more to benefit Baltimore's restaurants, the team reported on its website.
City restaurateurs have said they are struggling amid renewed coronavirus restrictions on in-person dining.
Jimmy's Seafood, known as a favorite for Ravens players, organized a GoFundMe campaign to support small restaurants in the city that are struggling amid the pandemic.
When Humphrey learned about the campaign, he donated $10,000 and challenged others to contribute, saying Monday on Twitter: "Nothing better than getting a good meal at a Baltimore restaurant.