Michael Sam will face a daunting set of challenges that most rookies don't have to deal with when making the already formidable jump from college to the NFL, according to the Associated Press.
First, Sam will have to find a team willing to put up with the media circus that will surround him, the AP reported. Then, he'll have to find acceptance like he did at Missouri, where his sexuality was a non-issue during a 12-2 season.
The difference is now he'll face opponents and their fans who know he's gay, which might lead to cheap shots and teammates hesitant to shower alongside him or undress in his presence, according to the AP.
While several teams and coaches said Monday that Sam's sexual orientation wouldn't affect his draft status, former NFL punter Chris Kluwe, who contends his championing of gay rights led to his release from the Minnesota Vikings last year, wasn't so sure, the AP reported.
"The majority of players will be supportive of Michael Sam or just won't care," Kluwe said, according to the AP. "You'll have isolated guys here and there who might try to make a fuss about it, but players by and large are very much, 'Hey, we're here to do a job, we're here to go out and play football.'
Other coaches said if a player is accountable and a winner, being gay is a non-issue, the AP reported.
"If anybody can come in and help us win games and be successful - black, white, yellow, straight, gay - I don't think it matters," said new Green Bay quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt, according to the AP.
"In terms of the coaching/front office side, I think there's where issues are going to arise because they are going to look at this like, 'Hey, is this going to cause a distraction for the team?' And by distraction, they mean, 'We're not really OK with having a gay player on our team, we can't come out and say that, so we're going to use the word distraction,'" Kluwe added, the AP reported. "And unfortunately, those are the people who determine if you're employed or not."
John Elway who is running the Broncos' front office now after a Hall of Fame playing career said Monday he'd have no problem drafting Sam, according to the AP.
"We will evaluate Michael just like any other draft prospect: on the basis of his ability, character and NFL potential. His announcement will have no effect on how we see him as a football player," Elway said, the AP reported.
"Having spent 16 years in an NFL locker room, the bottom line is that it's about treating others with respect and earning that respect. By all indications, it appears Michael has done just that throughout his football career," added Elway.
