While the offseason represents a chance for the Kansas City Chiefs to take a break from the grind of a football season, their commitment to bettering the community is still in full swing.

Cornerback Steve Nelson renewed that commitment on Tuesday afternoon with a visit to the local VA Medical Center, where the fourth-year defensive back met with patients and signed autographs in an effort to lift the spirits of those that could use it.

"I was just trying to make their day a little better," Nelson said. "I want to get out in the community and give back - especially while I have time off. That's what it's all about and why not do it right here in Kansas City?"

Nelson went room-to-room during the visit, presenting each patient he met with an autographed "Chiefs Kingdom" flag. It transformed what was seemingly an ordinary day at the hospital into much more.

"It's been wonderful," Nelson said. "These people really don't get that much excitement while they're here, so I wanted to come in and make their day better. They don't always get the acknowledgement (they deserve) for what they've done for our country, so it's always good to see them."

Serving Kansas City's veterans and their families since 1952, the VA Medical Center has "a proud tradition of providing quality care to the men and women who have proudly served our nation," according to its website.

It's something Nelson already knew plenty about.  

"I asked him if he had a connection to a veteran and he said his mom worked for the Atlanta VA," said Kathleen Fogarty, the Medical Center's Director and CEO. "It meant a lot for him to come out here and that's what I appreciate."

And most importantly, it made a difference for a handful of people dealing with difficult circumstances.

"It's really nice that he took time out of his day to come spend it with our patients," Fogarty said. "It really does motivate them and it makes them feel better. Just to have somebody come in and brighten their day means a lot."