It’s been a tumultuous year for Chiefs guard Brian Waters, who had some conflicts with the club’s new management when it took over before the 2009 season and suffered in silence during the 4-12 season.

So being a finalist for the NFL’s most prestigious award, The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, which recognizes players for playing excellence and work in the community, couldn’t be more meaningful for Waters.

“It’s a blessing to play in the NFL, so even with having the last three years the way they have, to have the opportunity to play, and to have the opportunity to give and have a platform where you can help other people through the process of giving, it’s a good thing,” said Waters on Friday in Fort Lauderdale when he was introduced at a press conference with the other two finalists, Washington linebacker London Fletcher and Cleveland wide receiver Mike Furrey.

“To be nominated for such a prestigious award could be an exclamation mark on this year.”

Not even a 10-38 record over the past three years can keep Waters down.

“I would imagine there are millions of people who wish they had the opportunity to do what we’re doing,” Waters said. “There is so much that goes into one win, and a lot of people who didn’t realize that then, realize that now.”

Waters is enthused about the changes in the coaching staff that includes new offensive coordinator Charlie Weis and defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel, though he cautioned, “we still have a long way to go

“They went out and got some really experienced coaches, who can lead the way, and if guys fall in line, we have an opportunity to win. These coaches give you the idea that you will not be led astray. That you have the right type of people you want to follow.”

The winner of the award will be announced on Sunday before kickoff of Super Bowl XLIV. Waters, a finalist for the second time in three years, could become the fifth Chiefs player to win the honor, and that would be more than any other team. Prevous winners include Len Dawson, Willie Lanier, Derrick Thomas and Will Shields.