When Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones covets something, he generally gets his way. The latest to catch Jones’ eye is rookie Michael Sam. It was reported that Sam will join the Cowboys' practice squad pending a physical.
Sam, who is the first openly-gay NFL player, was recently cut by the St. Louis Rams and cleared waivers over the weekend. He was a seventh-round pick this past spring and made it to the final cut before finally being released.
Rams head coach Jeff Fisher weighed in on Sam being cut: "It was a football decision and it was no different than any other decision that we make," Fisher said after cutting Sam. "It was a football decision back in May to draft Mike. And once again, it's been all about football. I will tell you this: I was pulling for Mike. I really was. I don't say that very often, but Mike came in here and did everything that we asked him to do,” according to CBSSports.com.
In 2013 the Cowboys transitioned from a 3-4 base personnel to a 4-3. This is exactly the type of system that allows Sam to succeed in this league. He is a “tweaner” and has very little chance to play the 3-4 OLB role. So the fit makes sense.
What also makes sense is Jones’ eye for the hype-machine. Sam will be added to the Cowboys practice squad, meaning he’ll never play unless sever injuries occur. It seems to be a money-grab by Jones on top of the slim possibility that Sam contributes this season.
For the preseason with the Rams, Sam tallied three sacks and one impressive Johnny Manziel “money-sign” imitation, according to ProFootballTalk.com.