Dak Prescott’s cleats promote cancer awareness
Dak Prescott isn’t letting an injury keep him from making an impact. While sidelined, he appeared at AT&T Stadium during the Cowboys’ Monday Night game against the Bengals, using the moment to highlight a personal cause. His cleats carried a powerful message: “Fight cancer” and “See the Unseen.”
The quarterback used the NFL’s “My Cause, My Cleats” initiative to promote cancer screenings. Prescott’s connection to the cause runs deep—his mother, Peggy, passed away from colon cancer in 2013. To honor her memory, he founded the Faith Fight Finish Foundation, which partners with Baylor Scott and White Health to raise awareness for early detection and screenings.
Dallas Cowboys Senior VP of Communications, Tad Carper, credits Dak Prescott and his foundation for saving his life through a timely cancer screening. Prescott’s efforts go beyond the game, inspiring fans and creating real change. One fan defended his actions, saying, “What’s wrong with some of y’all? Nothing but hate.”
Cowboys linebacker Buddy Johnson also participated in the “My Cause, My Cleats” program, using his platform to highlight the Everybody Needs a Buddy Foundation. Johnson founded the organization to provide mentorship and support to kids who lack guidance. His cleats symbolize a mission to help children find mentors, whether it’s a coach, sibling, or friend.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Johnson shared how his single mother and supportive coaches shaped his path. “My mom was my mom and my dad,” he said. “Good thing my coaches were always there. They picked me up when she was working hard.”
Johnson’s journey—from losing his best friend before college to hosting youth football camps—fuels his determination to pass on those lessons. His inaugural camp drew 200 kids, and he’s already planning a bigger turnout for next year.
Las Vegas Raiders’ Maxx Crosby is another prominent participant in the “My Cause, My Cleats” campaign. This year, Crosby designed cleats supporting Pits for Pets, a cause focused on rescuing and educating about pit bulls. Using AI technology from AWS, Crosby personalized his cleats, part of the league’s efforts to expand customization options for players and fans alike.
The NFL launched the initiative in 2016 to let players showcase their passions beyond football. Each year, it evolves to improve engagement and creativity. For the first time, fans can design cleats online using AI tools, supporting causes they care about.
Crosby’s commitment to his community reflects his leadership on and off the field. He’s a prime example of how athletes can leverage their platforms for good, inspiring others to take action.
My Cause My Cleats is an NFL initiative that allows players and coaches to wear customized cleats or sneakers to support charitable causes important to them. This program, which takes place during Weeks 13 and 14 of the NFL season, aims to raise awareness and funds for various charities. Each participating player showcases a unique design that reflects their chosen cause, ranging from health issues to social justice initiatives.
Read More: Panthers RB Jonathon Brooks suffers second ACL tear in 13 months, ending rookie season
NFL 
