Only strong and disciplined people can break through barriers: barriers that have lasted as long as existence. National Football League draft prospect Michael Sam wants to break those barriers down. Without much notice to anybody, he suddenly spoke at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday.
Sam said this to the press: "I just wish you guys (would) see me as Michael Sam the football player, instead of Michael Sam the gay football player,” according to NFL.com.
Big names in the upcoming draft take center stage in showcasing their talents in hopes to improve value. The list of big names this year include : Texas Tech QB Johnny Manziel, South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney, Louiseville QB Teddy Bridgewater and of course, 6’1”, 260 lb. Missouri DE Michael Sam.
Despite not being targeted in the first round, and being one of over 300 players at the Combine, The 24 year old Sam is receiving most of the attention for obvious reasons.
What’s more predictable were the questions that followed his statement. Despite his wishes of talking only football, the media asked questions of the contrary. Questions about how he would handle insults from fans or teammates; or about how he’d feel if the Miami Dolphins drafted him (stemming from the controversial Incognito locker room incident.)
Question after question, Sam answered with positive character and impressive poise. One media member asked if he felt like a trailblazer. Sam responded with a simple answer: “I feel like Michael Sam,” according to CBS Sports.
It’s a fine line between embracing any cause and remaining a football player focused only on football. The reigning SEC Defensive Player of the year was quite impressive on his first day with the NFL. Despite not even getting on the combine field yet, Sam has already shown great positives with his words and actions alone.