BUFFALO, N.Y. — Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox was honored for his accomplishments and faith Saturday.

He was the recipient of Athletes in Action’s Call to Courage award.

“I was so humbled and excited,” said Knox.

An annual tradition in Buffalo, it honors an NFL player who showed character, commitment, and leadership on and off the field.

This year, Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox took the honor, the third Bill to do so in the award's history.

“Probably the highest honor of my career so far,” Knox added.

It was also a testament to his Christian faith and how it guided him through his life and career.

“I mean, it’s like fumbling right before scoring the game-winning touchdown and getting a massive performance bonus the next day," Knox explained in his acceptance speech. "That just doesn’t happen. It doesn’t make sense to us, but that’s what God offers us.”

Former Bill Frank Reich presented the award.

“He just was so authentic and genuine in how he shared the ups and downs of it. It was not an easy journey,” Reich said. 

Knox presented stories of inspiration for the crowd, which included other athletes.

“Like Dawson was saying, you might not understand it now, but in the future, you know, it's God's plan," said Shaun Dolac, a linebacker for the University at Buffalo. "I'm just so excited for what the future holds for myself and the University at Buffalo program.”

Knox is using his platform to try and get that message across.

“Back in high school, I definitely didn't think my parents knew what they were talking about to the level that I understand now, that they truly speak out of love. And I knew when I was in high school I idolized NFL guys," said Knox. "I know that being an NFL player, you have a platform that more people will gravitate to and kind of listen to.”

While this breakfast specifically focused on the Christian faith, there are lessons that can be taken away by all.

“I use Bible principles all the time in team meetings. I've been coaching in the NFL, I'll use them in college," said Reich. "As a coach, you're looking for good stories, good illustrations that can help teach life.”

Also honored at the event were UB football players Shaun Dolac and Justus Kleitz from Iroquois High School.