Due to his work in 2010, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris has been nominated as one of the 28 finalists for the new Don Shula NFL Coach of the Year Award.

Morris, along with the rest of the nominees, has been chosen for his character, leadership, community work, and his success on the field, all qualities that were demonstrated by the winningest coach in NFL history – Don Shula. All nominees were selected by NFL teams and by USA Football.

In 2010, Morris, who is the youngest head coach in the NFL, orchestrated a franchise-best seven-game turnaround by going 10-6 one year after finishing 3-13. Morris’ “Race to 10” motto was a major motivational tool and he reached that goal with the youngest team in football. The Bucs became the first team since the merger to start 10-plus rookies and finish with a winning record.

"I consider myself a teacher and this is the ultimate teaching position," said Morris. "You're able to help men mature both on the field and off the field, and you have an opportunity to bond guys together and form a brotherhood of men to go out and achieve the ultimate goal. You love the sport, you love the game, you love everything about it, and it's a great thing to be a part of."

When he was not been busy preparing for Sundays, Morris found the time to participate in a myriad of events and appearances in his short tenure as head coach, helping to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, heart disease, and youth athletics, among other causes. He actively supports the charitable efforts and player foundations of current and former Buccaneers, and regularly volunteers for team community relations events and initiatives throughout the year.

The national Shula Award winner will receive $25,000 and be invited to the Super Bowl, where he will be recognized at a press conference.

Here are the rest of the nominees from the NFL level:

John Harbaugh – Baltimore Ravens

Sean Payton – New Orleans Saints

Tom Coughlin – New York Giants

Pete Carroll – Seattle Seahawks

Mike Heimerdinger – Tennessee Titans