Michael Sam is Missouri's powerful defensive end, All-American and Co-SEC Defensive Player of the Year. On Sunday, Sam added something else to his resume when he announced he is gay. In a time where acceptance and tolerance is more pervasive than ever across the U.S., the question still remains how - and if - this announcement will impact his burgeoning NFL career.
Sam made the announcement to his teammates in August 2013. But, after the news was out, and unsure as to what NFL scouts or the media would know or end up saying, he decided it was time to tell the world and "own his truth." In his interview on ESPN with Chris Connelly this past Sunday, he discussed several family tragedies and the adversity he had faced while growing up in Texas. Sam says, "telling the world that I am gay is nothing compared to that [the hardships faced while growing up]."
Sam does not look at being the first openly gay NFL player any differently. Sam believes that if he works hard and is able to win games, it should not matter that he is gay. But, how will NFL players and coaches feel? Most recently, another athlete also came out during their sport career: basketball player, Jason Collins. In 2013, Collins became the first active male player in the major American sports to come out as gay. After receiving much support from fellow athletes and political figures, there was some criticism surrounding his decision to come out to the world. Even with Sam's recent announcement, several athletes, celebrities and politicians took to social media to stand with Sam and declare their support for him.
It is yet to be seen whether this announcement will prove to be a boost to Sam's career due to name recognition or result in a drop in the projected mid-round draft pick. No matter what the outcome, Sam seems content with one aspect: he is not afraid of being himself.
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