Three distinguished athletic trainers are set to receive the Awards of Excellence from the Pro Football Hall of Fame for the 2025 class.
The announcement was made on Friday, highlighting the contributions of Ed Block, Pepper Burruss, and John Norwig, who will be recognized in this fourth class for their outstanding service in the field of sports medicine.

Ed Block began his professional journey in the NFL with the Baltimore Colts in 1954, serving as the head athletic trainer until the conclusion of the 1977 season.
During his tenure, he played a crucial role in the rehabilitation of iconic Hall of Famers, including Johnny Unitas, Raymond Berry, and Lenny Moore.
Block was honored with induction into the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Hall of Fame in 1974 and was a recipient of the Purple Heart due to his valorous service in World War II.
He also founded the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, which honors NFL players who demonstrate integrity and bravery, while supporting initiatives for children in need.

Pepper Burruss started his NFL career in 1977 with the New York Jets, where he dedicated 42 years to the sport.
He is especially noted for his pivotal role in providing emergency care for player Dennis Byrd following a spinal injury, which was crucial in Byrd’s recovery.
Burruss later transitioned to the Green Bay Packers, where he spent 26 years as the head trainer and took on the responsibility of the director of sports medicine administration.

John Norwig dedicated three decades to the Pittsburgh Steelers as their head athletic trainer.
In a progressive move, he hired the NFL’s first full-time female athletic trainer in 2002 and was rightfully inducted into the Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Hall of Fame in 2015.

This year’s recognition will also acknowledge the efforts of longtime assistant coaches Dick Hoak, Elijah Pitts, and Jim McNally, as well as public relations directors Pete Abitante, Jason Jenkins, and Bill Keenist, who were recognized in previous selections.
A ceremony to present the awards will take place in June, with additional announcements to follow regarding winners from categories including equipment managers and directors of film and video.