Missouri defensive end and NFL Draft prospect Michael Sam, SEC Defensive Player of the Year and an All-American in 2013, announced he is gay yesterday in an interview with the New York Times and ESPN.
An outpouring of support has ensued from the NFL, executives around the league, other players, and the general public, and Vikings owner Zygi Wilf was quick to do the same in a statement released Monday.
“We commend Michael Sam for being very courageous with his openness on something of such a personal nature. His comments will have no impact on how the Vikings view Michael as a football player or as a person. If a player can help us win, we will warmly welcome him as part of the team and provide an accepting, respectful and supportive environment to help him succeed in the NFL.”
Similar statements have been made by the New York Giants and John Elway of the Broncos, while Mizzou found a unique way to support Sam in his groundbreaking announcement.
Mizzou's stadium now has a giant snow tribute to Michael Sam: http://t.co/WaxevbR9PD pic.twitter.com/PLCkZOnNlO
— SB Nation (@SBNation) February 10, 2014
Sam is expected to be a mid-round pick in May’s NFL Draft, and if he does so, would become the first openly gay player in NFL history.
