Missouri Defensive Lineman Michael Sam Says He’s Gay [Video]

In a move that has the sports world shocked, University of Missouri defensive lineman and The Associated Press' Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year Michael Sam said in an interview with ESPN's "Outside the Lines" that he is an "openly, proud gay man."

Sam said in the ESPN show broadcast Sunday night that he told his Tigers teammates and coaches back in August.

"I understand how big this is. It's a big deal. No one has done this before. And it's kind of a nervous process," he said.

"But I know what I want to be. ... I want to be a football player in the NFL."

If all goes according to plan, Sam, a 6-foot-2, 255-pound senior from Hitchcock, Texas, will be eligible for the NFL draft in May.

If so and if drafted, he could be the first openly gay NFL player.

This is a big deal.

Do you think that this will have an effect on Michael Sam's future as an NFL player?

Source: Free Beer & Hot Wings