University of Missouri defensive end Michael Sam runs through drills during the 2014 NFL Combine in Indianapolis
University of Missouri defensive end Michael Sam runs through drills during the 2014 NFL Combine in Indianapolis Reuters

The first openly gay football player drafted by the NFL will not be playing in an actual game. Michael Sam signed a contract for two years with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League on Friday, May 22, 2015. He was previously cut by the St. Louis Rams and Dallas Cowboys. In another TMZ report, Sam alleged that he did not become part of any NFL roster because of the fact that he is gay.

Sam said before, “I think I was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year last year ... so I don't think it had to do with talent.”

Jim Popp, General Manager of the Alouettes, said in a TMZ Sports report, “With the signing of Michael Sam, we have become a better organization today. Not only have we added an outstanding football player, we have added even a better person that brings dignity, character, and heart to our team."

Sam also shared his excitement by saying, “I cannot wait to put on the pads, get back on the field and work hard each and every day with my teammates to bring a Grey Cup to the great fans here in Montreal."

Fox Sports wrote that Sam will most likely be a starter in the Canadian Football League, although he is predicted to get less than 10 sacks in the entire season, consisting of 18 games. Brendon Ayanbadejo of Fox Sports believed that Sam will not perform as well with the Allouettes because they are among the better teams in the CFL. His time in Montreal can actually boost his game. He has the drive on the field and has sufficient size to take on the bigger players in the CFL. However, he lacks speed. Hopefully, the Allouettes can bring out his full potential in the next couple of years.

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