BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Buffalo Bills tackle Dion Dawkins will receive Buffalo’s Key to the City on Nov. 14, Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon announced on Friday.
The ceremony will take place in Niagara Square starting at 5 p.m. and is free to attend.
Dawkins, 31, has been a standout left tackle for the Bills after joining the team as a second-round pick in 2017. He’s also embraced the Buffalo community and is known for his charitable efforts throughout Buffalo and Western New York.
The four-time Pro Bowler created his non-profit, Dion’s Dreamers, in 2020 to provide mentorship and support to young men and women.
“Dion Dawkins represents everything that makes Buffalo special — hard work, heart, and a commitment to lifting others up,” Scanlon said in a statement. “On and off the field, he’s been a role model to our young people and a champion for our community. This Key to the City is a symbol of our gratitude for all he’s done and continues to do to make Buffalo a better place for everyone.”
“Buffalo has been the pinnacle of my life since I was drafted here, and now with being able to receive the Key to the City, it means everything but especially unity with this city,” Dawkins said in a statement. “It allows me to connect more hands of greatness, love, and passion to those who want to see the city continue to be a better place. I’m thankful to be honored. I’m thankful to be a part of everything that Buffalo has to offer and I’m thankful to now officially be called a Buffalonian. I will use this key not just as a trophy but to continue to drive this city to be as great as we know it all is.”
Dawkins joins a small but prestigious list as a recipient of the Key to the City. He’s the first Bill to be honored since Terrell Owens in 2009.
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Mark Ludwiczak joined the News 4 team in 2024. He is a veteran journalist with two decades of experience in Buffalo. You can follow him online at @marklud12.