Former University of Missouri defensive end Michael Sam is getting plenty of kudos for potentially becoming the first known gay athlete in the NFL.
On Wednesday, Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross made a public statement to offer his support as Sam enters the NFL draft.
“Michael Sam’s announcement is a significant step in sports and I respect the choice that he made publicly. His announcement will have no bearing either way on our evaluation of him as a player. Dennis Hickey, Joe Philbin and I all agree on the same thing; we'll draft the best players that can help us win football games, have high character and contribute to the community. If he is a member of our organization, Michael will be welcomed here with open arms as part of our family."
What are the chances of Miami drafting Sam in May? This week we outlined the possibilities.
Miami’s chances are low because the Dolphins are deep at defensive end with players such as Cameron Wake, Olivier Vernon, Dion Jordan and Derrick Shelby. Miami has bigger areas to address in the draft, such as the offensive line and secondary.