The Montreal Alouettes of the CFL announced on Friday morning that they have signed Michael Sam to a two-year contract.
Sam, 25, spent time with the St. Louis Rams and Dallas Cowboys but never appeared in a regular season game for either team. He was working hard to earn another shot in the NFL, but the former Missouri star did not perform well at the veteran scouting combine earlier this offseason.
Alouettes general manager Jim Popp expressed confidence last month that the team would eventually be able to sign Sam, and he was right.
“With the signing of Michael Sam, we have become a better organization today,” Popp said Friday. “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 said he is thrilled to be given an opportunity to continue his football career.
“I am very excited and proud to join the Montreal Alouettes and want to thank team Owner Robert Wetenhall, General Manager Jim Popp and Head Coach Tom Higgins for this opportunity,” he said. “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.”
If Sam is still hoping to play in the NFL one day, this was probably the best career choice for him. He’s only 25, so there would likely be NFL teams interested in the next couple of years if he lights it up in the CFL.
While some will argue that Sam didn’t get a fair shot because he is gay, several others — including one NFL player who is reportedly bisexual — believe he received enough chances. Excelling with the Alouettes could give Sam another.
