New Orleans Saints linebacker Michael Mauti has provided inspiration to countless people dealing with ulcerative colitis.
From November 2016 through last April, Mauti underwent three surgeries to remove his large intestine and rectum, and somehow, he managed to return to the NFL.
Based on an announcement Wednesday morning, Mauti has inspired his teammates, too.
The Saints voted Mauti as the team's 2017 Ed Block Courage Award winner. Every team votes for the award each year as players nominate someone who "best exemplifies the principles of courage and sportsmanship while also serving as a source of inspiration," according to the Saints' news release.