Michael Sam, the former Defensive End for the Missouri Tigers, is the first openly gay player to be selected in the NFL draft. Sam, whose draft stock plummeted due to lackluster performances in the NFL draft combine paired with his announcement in February, was selected in the 7th round with the 249th pick overall to the St. Louis Rams.
Whether or not the pick was out of confidence in his production on the field, or a PR stunt, will be determined late this summer, when NFL teams pick their final rosters. But regardless of the outcome, history has been made and it has been receiving national headlines. Even a statement from President Barack Obama congratulated Sam on beginning his next chapter, stating, "from the playing field to the corporate boardroom. LGBT Americans prove every day that you should be judged by what you do and not who you are."
But shouldn't the story be that the Rams are drafting a superior athletic talent rather than a token? It's undeniable that a huge step has been made to abolish intolerance. But not once since he was picked have I heard anything regarding his ability to tackle, his speed, instincts, and NFL potential. That's what draft night is all about isn't it? The next batch of stars to set foot on the gridiron and the potential upside they bring to their organization.
It seems to me that the story so far has been a gay man who happens to play football, rather than the gay football player. Private life aside, he has real potential, and everybody involved should be honored to be a part of the process. But his sexual orientation has little to do with his ability to make the most of his opportunities.
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