In what was described as a “landmark moment in American sports history” in an interview with ESPN, Missouri defensive end and SEC defensive player of the year Michael Sam came out to the world as gay Sunday.
“I am Michael Sam, I’m a college graduate, I’m African-American, and Im gay,” Sam said to the network at the tail end of his interview.
Sam is listed as a top-10 defensive end prospect on some NFL draft boards, and should he be drafted, would become the first openly gay NFL-draftee, and subsequently the first openly gay player in NFL history.
NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper. Jr said shortly after the announcement that Sam is like a “third-to-fifth” round pick.
The first-team All-American said he told his teammates in August that he was gay, and said the tone of the room was “OK, finally Michael told us he is gay”, adding that the feeling of acceptance he received was “amazing”.
When asked why he was the right person to be in the spotlight for this issue Sam simply responded “because I’m not afraid of who I am.”
Reaction has been extremely positive in the immediate aftermath of the interview, including former Viking Robert Smith tweeting his support.
Bravo to Michael Sam for his courage. Hopefully we're one step closer to the day when an athlete's sexual preference isn't newsworthy.
— Jeff Eisenberg (@JeffEisenberg) February 10, 2014
Nothing but respect for my bro Michael Sam and what he did today. Takes a lot of courage to let the world in on something so personal. #MIZ
— Laurence Bowers (@LBowers_21) February 10, 2014
Many years from now, people will remember the courage it took for Michael Sam to come out as gay. Great player, incredible person. #Missouri
— robert smith (@Robert26Smith) February 10, 2014
Proud of Michael Sam, I admire his courage. I hope this inspires more young athletes to be proud of who they are! http://t.co/z2T6FKuFoX
— Jeff G. (Not the QB) (@TheSportsDude) February 10, 2014
NFL statement: "We admire Michael Sam's honesty and courage. We look forward to welcoming and supporting Michael Sam in 2014." @SportsCenter
— NewsBreaker (@NewsBreaker) February 10, 2014
Sam tweeted his thanks for the support shortly after the interview aired.
I want to thank everybody for their support and encouragement,especially @espn, @nytimes and @nfl. I am proud to tell my story to the world!
— Michael Sam (@MichaelSam52) February 10, 2014
