NEW YORK CITY — New York Giants safety Stevie Brown will challenge Washington Redskins linebacker Rob Jackson in Pro Player Insiders’ first-ever Gridiron Chef Competition on Tuedfay, April 23, in New York City. The NFL rivals will turn up the heat during an exciting celebrity VIP event designed to raise funds for a great cause.

Ticket proceeds from the event will benefit Sandy Hook Promise.

Brown and Jackson will chop, slice and dice off the field from a mystery basket of ingredients. They will have 30 minutes, a pantry, and a partner of their choosing to work with.

Dishes will be tasted and scored by celebrity chefs Diane DiMeo of Food Network’s Chopped and Kim Daisy, creator of Daisy Cakes, as well as former NFL tight end Reggie Kelly. Each dish will be scored on Taste, Creativity, Plating, and Smack Talking.

 “Along with the nation, I was shocked and saddened to hear about the events at Sandy Hook Elementary. Because I grew up in West Haven, this senseless act of violence really hit close to home,” said Jackson. “I am honored to be working with Pro Player Insiders to raise money for this special cause and look forward to showing Brown who’s number one in the kitchen as well as on the field.”

“Playing in New York, Newtown is part of our extended family and this event is a great way to show support for their community,” said Brown.  “I may not be the best chef in the world but I know I will take home the crown of top Gridiron Chef.”

Hosting the culinary cook-off is Chef Plum (nee Kritopher Plummer), an avid football fan, professional chef and resident of Newtown. Plum appeared on this season’s The Taste on ABC, has been on Food Network, and is a columnist for ProPlayerInsiders.com.

The First-Annual Pro-Players Insiders Gridiron Challenge will be held at NY Vintners in downtown Manhattan. NFL players, celebrity chefs and other VIPs will arrive for a star-studded red carpet event to kick-off the Challenge. The event is expected to run from 5:30 to 9 pm.

Limited tickets are still available, at $150 each or $200 for two, at gridironchef.eventbrite.com.

“Teamwork is important in life, whether it be in the kitchen, on the field or in the community,” said Melissa Mahler, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Pro Player Insiders. “I am grateful for the players and chefs who have joined this effort to raise funds for the Sandy Hook Promise, and look forward to an exciting event.”