October 23, 2014
Sports
This May, Sam was originally drafted by the St. Louis Rams, but was cut from the team later in the summer. Soon after, the Dallas Cowboys opted to pick up the rookie Defensive End for their practice squad. However, Dallas also ended Sam’s NFL dreams by cutting him yesterday.
In response to his release, Sam posted the following statement to his Twitter account:
“I want to thank the Jones family and the entire Cowboys organization for their opportunity, as well as my friends, family, teammates, and fans for their support. While this is disappointing, I will take the lessons I learned here in Dallas and continue to fight for an opportunity to prove that I can play every Sunday.”
Michael Sam made worldwide headlines for affectionately kissing his boyfriend on live television following his draft selection. Although many applauded his bold move to immediately “come out” in the macho sport of football, others predicted it would be the kiss of death for his rookie career.
Was “the kiss” the beginning of the end for Michael Sam?
Was "the kiss" the beginning of the end for Michael Sam? [….] No. I don't think so. In fact, seeing how this whole thing has played out…I'd say his decision to *Out* himself right before the NFL draft probably was the actual "beginning of the end" for him. But "the kiss" certainly didn't help matters either…smh. Having said all that – Sam got cut from a practice squad. A PRACTICE SQUAD!!!….which tells me he's NOT good enough to play in the NFL at ANY level. Period. When you're attempting to break down barriers and crush racist and bigoted stereotypes…particularly being "the First" of your kind ….you HAVE to be better than just *good enough.* You HAVE to be Exceptional….the *Best of the Best.* And that's especially so for people of Color who may also be Gay…no matter the profession one aspires to work in. As an"Out" athlete, seeking to play… Read more »