As the NFL regular season winds down, players are focused on finishing strong, whether it's a playoff push or ending on a high note. But amidst the competitive drive, the holiday spirit remains alive and well. Four NFL stars – Tee Higgins (Cincinnati Bengals), James Conner (Arizona Cardinals), Pat Surtain II (Denver Broncos), and Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders) – partnered with Raising Cane's to bring joy to children in their communities by giving away bikes.
Patrick Surtain II giving out bikes to children with Raising Cane's. (Raising Cane's)
In conversations with these players, they reflected on their favorite Christmas memories. For Daniels, a leading contender for Offensive Rookie of the Year, choosing just one was impossible. He fondly recalled the joy of spending time with family, opening presents, and watching Kobe Bryant play basketball on Christmas Day.
Surtain, whose father also played in the NFL, echoed the sentiment of family time being paramount. He reminisced about large family gatherings filled with delicious food, games, and creating lasting memories.
Tee Higgins and Raising Cane's donate bikes to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Cincinnati. (IMAGN)
Conner's cherished tradition involved setting up the family Christmas tree, a simple act that always ignited the holiday spirit. Meanwhile, Higgins shared a humorous anecdote about his childhood curiosity getting the better of him. He excitedly started his new dirt bike in the middle of the night, waking the entire household and earning himself a swift reprimand.
James Conner connects with a fan at a bike giveaway event. (Raising Cane's)
Ultimately, the shared theme among these athletes was the importance of family, togetherness, and creating cherished memories during the holiday season. Their acts of giving back to their communities further exemplify the spirit of the season.
