Michael Sam being drafted as the first openly gay player in the NFL was news in itself, but the former Missouri linebacker’s reaction to being drafted is historic as well.
ESPN recorded and decided to play Sam’s reaction to being drafted. The reigning SEC Defensive Player of the Year broke down and cried upon learning he was selected by the Rams 249th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft. He got some emotional support from his boyfriend who was at his side, and then the two shared multiple kisses on the lips.
Sam is obviously completely comfortable with his sexuality, and that is to be applauded. As for those disgusted by this moment, you should get over yourself. Are you offended when a player kisses his girlfriend after being drafted? Then this shouldn’t bother you, either.
That was very bold of Sam to act so affectionately on national TV, bold of ESPN to record it and just as bold of them to show it to their audience knowing it would offend some.
As a reminder, he’s not the first guy to give another guy a kiss on the lips after being drafted:
