T.Y. Hilton's Gesture After Touchdown Will Give You Chills

Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton was playing with a deeper purpose.

ByABC News
November 24, 2014, 1:37 AM

— -- T.Y. Hilton played with a deeper purpose Sunday.

The Indianapolis Colts wide receiver wanted to catch a touchdown for his newborn daughter, Eugenia, nicknamed Gigi. Hilton’s wife, Shantrell, gave birth early Sunday morning, leading to speculation as to whether Hilton would play.

Hilton made it to Lucas Oil Stadium in time for Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. And in the third quarter, he made good on his touchdown hopes, catching a pass from quarterback Andrew Luck and racing into the end zone for a 73-yard touchdown.

After crossing the goal line, he cradled the ball and rocked back and forth, a touching celebration on an emotional day.

PHOTO: Indianapolis Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton cradles the football after making a 73-yard touchdown reception during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Nov. 23, 2014 in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton cradles the football after making a 73-yard touchdown reception during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Nov. 23, 2014 in Indianapolis.

Hilton was sentimental in a post-game interview, his voice shaking and his eyes misty.

“Very emotional game for me,” he said. “A little bit of rest. Been up since 4 or 5 [a.m.], I just came out here and gave it my all. ... The whole time, I just wanted to give it my all and play the game for her.”