Normally when constructing an article, I never take the safe or politically correct route. I always prefer to speak my mind and express things in a straight shooter style mentality. It isn’t a lack of respect or a careless tactic used to demean or belittle anyone. I’ve been raised to be honest, courteous, respectful, and above all, genuine.
When I go through my process of researching a topic or facts for an article, I often find myself referring back to a specific episode of ESPN’s First Take or Mike and Mike In The Morning, or some other sports talk or debate forum. This helps me to be both objective and biased at the same time.
The issue of gay athletes in the four major American sports, have been a hot topic since former NBA player John Amechi announced his sexual orientation. There has always been speculation that certain athletes were lying about their sexuality to maintain an image or to protect their endorsements, but not until recent weeks has the topic been the main focus EVERYWHERE!
My personal belief isn’t important when it comes to someone’s personal sexual preference, but I support anyone who lives their life on their own terms. That’s the American way! As long as they aren’t hurting other individuals, it really isn’t mine or anyone else’s business.
Courtesy: ABC News
With that being said, I really believe that Michael Sam and Jason Collins have turned the NBA and the NFL into a complete circus. Now before I receive tons of emails and tweets calling me a homophobe or some sort of other name, please hear me out. What reason did Michael Sam have for “coming out” weeks before the NFL Combine?
His sexual orientation isn’t being critiqued. The countless GMs and coaches who attend the combine, do so with the intent to analyze and hone in on player skills, football IQ, personality, and off the field demeanor. If there were any questions about Sam’s sexual preference, a hefty lawsuit should’ve followed. Just like you and I, perspective employers have no right to ask those types of questions. Even if these employers are paying you millions of dollars, personal sexual orientation should never come up during a job interview PERIOD!
Job performance and knowledge in your field are what an individual should be judged on. When Michael Sam showcased his skills at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, his performance was TERRIBLE! Amongst all the other defensive players there, Sam posted the second fewest reps (17) when bench pressing 225 lbs. That’s horrendous (For the record, I can muster 12 reps of 225 lbs and I’m a 6’1 former point guard well past my prime)!
Courtesy: CBS Sports
His time in the 40 yard dash(4.91 seconds)AWFUL! At 6’2 and 261lbs, Michael Sam doesn’t have the ideal NFL defensive end size. Based on his time in the 40, his speed will get him outran by average speed players in the league. Let’s be honest people, when the ball is snapped, that weak showing in the weight room will not help him when trying to blow up a running play. Has anyone seen Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch handle some of the best defenders the league has to offer? Most definitely! Just thought I’d answer that one for you.
In closing, I feel that Michael Sam did himself and injustice by “coming out” when he didn’t have to. The NFL Combine was put in place to help players showcase their football skills, not to be used as an open forum for personal retribution. Maybe if Michael Sam would’ve worked harder in the weight room and tried diligently to increase his 40 time, this article wouldn’t exist and his draft stock wouldn’t be in jeopardy.
