Cincy Hats Co-Founder Ted Karras Named Bengals’ Walter Payton Man of the Year Nominee

(PRESS RELEASE)

Ted Karras, center for the Cincinnati Bengals and co-founder of Cincy Hats. IMAGE COURTESY OF IMPERIAL HEADWEAR

BOURBON, MO — Ted Karras, center for the Cincinnati Bengals and co-founder of Cincy Hats—a partner of Imperial Headwear—has been named the Bengals’ 2025 Walter Payton Man of the Year Club winner. Karras was selected as the team’s nominee on December 4, 2025. This is Karras’ second nomination. The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award will be announced at the NFL Honors ceremony on February 5, 2026.

The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award is presented annually to an NFL player who demonstrates commitment to philanthropy and community impact, alongside excellence on the field. Through Cincy Hats, Karras works with Imperial Headwear to produce headwear collections sold worldwide, with proceeds benefiting his adopted charity, Village of Merici, which provides support services and independent living opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.

Headquartered in Indianapolis, IN, Village of Merici provides a range of support services to individuals and families across Indianapolis and the surrounding counties. In addition to individualized services, the organization offers affordable supportive housing through Merici Village Apartments, North End Apartments, and its newest community, The Brunette. These housing options promote independent, self-directed living while fostering a sense of community.

Through this partnership, Imperial collaborates with co-founders Ted Karras and Matt Renie and the Cincy Hats team to produce headwear in support of this philanthropic initiative. According to Imperial, Cincy Hats designs have been worn by Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, country singer Luke Combs and comedian Shane Gillis.

Blank versions of Imperial Headwear styles are carried by Counselor Top 40 supplier Sportsman Cap & Bag and sold through distributors nationwide for use in the promotional industry.