Each year the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation highlights a member of the NFL community for their courage through adversity or dedication to serving the community. Their story is featured during the Courage Awards events with a special award presented during the Ed Block Celebration party.
2022 Honorary Ed Block Awardee - Brandon ``Poe`` Williams
After the 2008 season, the Baltimore Ravens named “Poe” their official mascot after the retirement of his counterparts, “Edgar” and “Allen.” Brandon Williams has donned the bird costume for every home game since leading up to the 2022 season.
On August 27th, during the team’s final preseason game before the season, Poe went down on a play during a halftime football game Mascot Classic versus local children. He was carted off the field with field by the team’s training staff with what Head Coach John Harbaugh labeled as “an injury to his drumstick.” The officially diagnosis was a torn ACL
Brandon and Poe would be placed on injured reserve, as he was unexpected to return for the rest of the season. After 14 years, former mascots Edgar and Allen were able to fill in the duties of riling the crowd and spreading cheer throughout the stadium throughout the season.
But with the help of the team and his own perseverance, Brandon and Poe would make a triumphant return in the team’s final home game against the rival Pittsburgh Steelers. He made a grand entrance standing up out of his wheelchair in front of the raucous crowd and showered by cheers from the fans.
Poe not only works the sidelines and the M&T Bank stadium stands for the Ravens but also is a pillar in the community. During the pandemic, with the restriction on in-person interaction, Brandon spent his time making Zoom calls with children from across the Baltimore community. Since taking on the role, he has routinely made appearances at schools, hospitals and even the local tailgates before the games.
Brandon’s courage and inspiration as a true role model lead to the recognition of his efforts as the 2022 Honorary Ed Block Awardee. Poe will take home his own Courage Award trophy presented to the NFL players.
Wade Harman received the Honorary Ed Block Awardee plaque and was recognized with the 2021 class of Courage Award recipients.
