Offensive lineman Nick Gates, back in action after undergoing seven surgeries to repair a fractured tibia and fibula in his left leg suffered Week 2 of last season, has been named the New York Giants recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award.
Gates missed 410 days of NFL action between his injury and his Week 8 return this season against the Seattle Seahawks. Gates made his first start last Thursday, filling in at center for Jon Feliciano in a 28-20 Thanksgiving Day loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
The Ed Block Courage Awards honors NFL players who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage.