Mizzouri Tigers DE Michael Sam Says He’s Gay, Set to be First Openly Gay Player in NFL … “Not That There is Anything Wrong With That”

In an interview with ESPN’s ‘Outside the Lines,’ Missouri Tiger’s DE Michael Sam says, “I am an openly, proud gay man.”

Michael Sam was the 2013 AP SEC defensive player of the year and is expected to be drafted in the early to mid rounds of the upcoming NFL draft. But believe it or not, for those in the know and around football, especially teams getting background and vetting college players for the NFL draft, this is hardly a revelation. So for the most part this was not a surprise. NFL teams vet players more than the media vets potential presidential candidates, which is a shame and a story for another day. With the story out there Michael Sam came out and professed his sexuality as he said, “I want to own my truth. … No one else should tell my story but me.”

click on pic to watch ESPN VIDEO

Michael Sam, an All-American defensive lineman from Missouri and the Associated Press’ SEC Defensive Player of the Year, said that he is gay in an interview with ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” on Sunday.

Sam stated publicly what his teammates and coaches at Mizzou have known since August: “I am an openly, proud gay man.”

Sam is eligible for the NFL draft in May. Assuming that he is drafted, Sam could become the first openly gay player in the history of the NFL.

“I understand how big this is,” he said. “It’s a big deal. No one has done this before. And it’s kind of a nervous process, but I know what I want to be … I want to be a football player in the NFL.”

Reaction to Michael Sam news explodes on Twitter.

The NFL released a statement Sunday night supporting Michael Sam. (VIDEO)

“We admire Michael Sam’s honesty and courage,” NFL senior vice president of communications Greg Aiello said in the statement. “Michael is a football player. Any player with ability and determination can succeed in the NFL. We look forward to welcoming and supporting Michael Sam in 2014.”

ABC News: Michael Sam should be commended.

What happens next is what’s most interesting here. Michael Sam’s decision to come out as gay in advance of his arrival in the NFL is courageous and historic and should be celebrated as such. The best way to celebrate it would be to leave him alone and let him play football.

But that’s not going to happen, at least not right away. This is going to be the story of the week and the story of next week’s scouting combine and one of the big stories of the draft and of the early days of training camp for whichever team picks Sam. The manner in which this story is received and covered by the outside world will say a lot about where we are as a society in 2014. We’ve been covering and anticipating this story for a while without a name or a date. Now that we have both, let’s all hope we’re as well prepared to handle it as he is.

Hmm, commended … The American Thinker has another point of view that has validity as well … “Tolerance is a good thing. I’m all for it. But being tolerant doesn’t mean you have to shut your mouth when people make fools of themselves.” I thought the mantra from the Bill Clinton – Monica affair was that it was a personal matter and none of our business?

I will never understand this narcissistic impulse among many gays to flaunt their sexual preference. This is a personal and private matter that most of the rest of us aren’t interested in knowing.

On a person note so Michael Sam is gay, not that there is anything wrong with that (VIDEO). From personal experience a sports locker room can be an interesting place when it comes to comments. Let’s just hope that from this point going forward he is just known as a football player; however, the media is going to make a circus out of the fact that he is the first openly gay football player. The truth is that it is commendable that he came out; however, another truth is that many teams may think that this will be a distraction in the locker room and many will not want to deal with the circus of a MSM focusing on a players sexuality, rather than the team. This could cause his draft stock to drop and of course if he does go lower than what was originally projected, that will become a media story and cries of discrimination.

The news that former Missouri defensive end Michael Sam is gay holds significant social and cultural ramifications. But from a purely football perspective, his decision to come out prior to May’s NFL draft will make his path to the league daunting, eight NFL executives and coaches told SI.com.

In blunt terms, they project a significant drop in Sam’s draft stock, a publicity circus and an NFL locker room culture not prepared to deal with an openly gay player. Sam, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, was projected as a mid- to late-round draft pick prior to his announcement.

While none of the executives overtly condemned Sam’s decision, their opinions illuminated an NFL culture in which an openly gay player — from the draft room to the locker room — faces long odds and a lonely path.

NBC Edits Out IOC Anti-Discrimination (Gay) Statement From Opening Winter Olympic Ceremony in Sochi

What was the #1 story leading up to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic Games, other than a possible terrorist attack? It was Russia’s views and laws that were anti-discriminatory against Gays.

So then why did NBC edit out the one part of the IOC’s statement during the opening ceremony that was commenting about Russia’s  anti-discrimination” policies? As Buzz Feed reports,  IOC president Thomas Bach made a strong statement against “any form of discrimination” and in favor of tolerance; however, no one in America watching the games saw or heard them because NBC conveniently edited them out. But of course NBC is no stranger to editing out important parts of the news are they (George Zimmerman 911 call). Hmm, why edit something that spoke so directly to what was considered an important part of the games? Please, and I do not want to hear about it being edited for time. There was much more of his speak that could have found it’s way onto the editing room floor.

What would the Peacock say?

More from Deadspin more on the edits and both VIDEO’s, one edited, the other not.

Good evening, dear Athletes. Mr president of the Russian Federation, Mr Secretary General of the United Nations, Good evening Olympic friends and fans around the world! Welcome to the 22nd Olympic Winter Games! Tonight, we are writing a new page in Olympic history.

What has been achieved in seven years is a remarkable achievement. I would like it thank, in again, the president of the Russian Federation and his Government. The Sochi organizing committee. The Russian Olympic committee. And the IOC members in Russia.

Thank you to all the workers for your great contribution under sometimes difficult circumstances. Thank you to all the people of Sochi and the Krasnodar region. Thank you for your patience, thank you for your understanding during these years of transformation.

Now you are living in an Olympic Region. I am sure you will enjoy the benefits for many, many years to come. Thousands of volunteers have welcomed us with the well-known warm Russian hospitality. Many thanks to all the wonderful volunteers. Bolshoi spasiba, valantyoram! Thank you very much to everyone. Russia and the Russians have set the stage for you, the best winter athletes on our planet. From this moment on you are not only the best athletes, you are Olympic Athletes. You will inspire us with your outstanding sports performances. You have come here for sports. You have come here with your Olympic dream. The International Olympic Committee wants your Olympic Dream to come true. This is why we are investing almost all of our revenues in the development of sports. The universal Olympic rules apply to each and every athlete- no matter where you come from or what your background is. You are living together in the Olympic Village. You will celebrate victory with dignity and accept defeat with dignity. You are bringing the Olympic Values to life. In this way, the Olympic Games, wherever they take place, set an example for a peaceful society. Olympic Sport unites people. This is the Olympic Message the athletes spread to the host country and to the whole world. Yes, it is possible to strive even for the greatest victory with respect for the dignity of your competitors. Yes, Yes, it is possible – even as competitors – to live together under one roof in harmony, with tolerance and without any form of discrimination for whatever reason. Yes, it is possible – even as competitors – to listen, to understand and to give an example for a peaceful society.

Olympic Games are always about building bridges to bring people together. Olympic Games are never about erecting walls to keep people apart. Olympic Games are a sports festival embracing human diversity in great unity. Therefore, I say to the political leaders of the world – thank you for supporting your athletes. They are the best ambassadors of your country. Please respect their Olympic Message of goodwill, of tolerance, of excellence and of peace. Have the courage to address your disagreements in a peaceful, direct political dialogue and not on the backs of the athletes.

To all sports officials and sports fans I say – join and support our fight for fair play, the athletes deserve it. To you – my fellow Olympic Athletes – I say, respect the rules, play fair, be clean, respect your fellow athletes in and out of competition.

We all wish you joy in your Olympic effort and a wonderful Olympic experience. To all of you – Athletes, Officials, Fans and Spectators around our globe – I say, enjoy the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games! And now I have the honour of inviting the president of the Russian Federation, Mister Vladimir Putin, to declare open the 22nd Olympic Winter Games.

UPDATE I: An NBC spokesperson stated “The IOC President’s comments were edited for time, as were other speeches, but his message got across very clearly to viewers.

FEAR THE BEARD: A&E Caves, Phil Robertson Hiatus Over Patriarch Back on ‘Duck Dynasty’ … Phil Robertson 2 – GLAAD 0

HE’S BACK … AND WE ARE SO GLAAD GLAD!!!

Less than two weeks after Robertson was put on “indefinite hiatus” for his remarks than angered GLAAD, the ‘Duck Dynasty’ patriarch is back on D2 as A&E has caved due to a backlash like they have never seen. This represents another reversal of fortune as related to Phil Robertson as it was just last Sunday that Cracker Barrel learned the errors of their ways and had to put back Robertson’s merchandise on the shelves after they had a knee-jerk reaction the previous Friday and removed it. I am starting to sense a trend here. It is a victory for free speech, it is a victory for freedom of religion and a victory against the Gestapo PC police. 

Oh what a lesson this is to the liberal media and the intolerant LEFT … Take notice how one stands up to a bully.

BOYCOTT AGAINST A&E VICTORY … MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!

An A&E statement to The Hollywood Reporter read:

As a global media content company, A+E Networks’ core values are centered around creativity, inclusion and mutual respect. We believe it is a privilege for our brands to be invited into people’s homes, and we operate with a strong sense of integrity and deep commitment to these principles.

That is why we reacted so quickly and strongly to a recent interview with Phil Robertson. While Phil’s comments made in the interview reflect his personal views based on his own beliefs and his own personal journey, he and his family have publicly stated they regret the “coarse language” he used and the misinterpretation of his core beliefs based only on the article. He also made it clear he would “never incite or encourage hate.” We at A+E Networks expressed our disappointment with his statements in the article and reiterate that they are not views we hold.

But Duck Dynasty is not a show about one man’s views. It resonates with a large audience because it is a show about family … a family that America has come to love. As you might have seen in many episodes, they come together to reflect and pray for unity, tolerance and forgiveness. These are three values that we at A+E Networks also feel strongly about.

So after discussions with the Robertson family, as well as consulting with numerous advocacy groups, A&E has decided to resume filming Duck Dynasty later this spring with the entire Robertson family. (Read the rest HERE)

Oh I cannot wait for the GLAAD meltdown. Careful, they may actually cause Global Warming it is going to be so intense.

A note to the tolerant LEFT and GLAAD who may not agree with another individuals personal and religious beliefs … turn the channel!!! One of my favorite tag lines for A&E’s decision reversal from Legal Insurrection … A&E Admits it Ducked Up – will bring back Duck Dynasty Star. Ha, yes they did!

UPDATE I: Oh so many Tweets at TWITCHY.

Twitter

UPDATE II: Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson reinstated after zero-day suspension.

The length of an “indefinite” ban from filming for an outspoken star of the hit reality series Duck Dynasty has been revealed, and it is zero days.

The A&E Networks on Friday announced a decision to reinstate Phil Robertson, the patriarch of its runaway hit guns ‘n’ god series, just one week after suspending him for controversial remarks he made in a GQ interview.

Earlier this month, Robertson told GQ he thought “homosexual behavior” was sinful and led to bestiality. A&E promptly declared itself “extremely disappointed” with the viewpoint and said “the network has placed Phil under hiatus from filming indefinitely.”

Following a ratings-threatening backlash from hundreds of thousands of Duck Dynasty fans, A&E on Friday issued a groveling retraction of that stand.

Official Statement from Robertson Family Regarding A&E’s Suspension of Phil Robertson … ‘We Cannot Imagine the Show’ Without Phil Robertson

‘Duck Dynasty’ Family: ‘We Cannot Imagine the Show’ Without Phil Robertson …

So what is the state of affairs of the reality TV show ‘Duck Dynasty’ going forward on A&E following their knee-jerk reaction to suspend family patriarch Phil Robertson indefinitely for stating his Constitutionally protected freedom of speech and region as a result of pressure from gay activist groups? The family makes it very well known that are about God and family first and foremost which would signal that the future of the show continuing on A&E without Phil is nil.

The Robertson Family Official Statement from Duck Commander.com:

We want to thank all of you for your prayers and support.  The family has spent much time in prayer since learning of A&E’s decision.  We want you to know that first and foremost we are a family rooted in our faith in God and our belief that the Bible is His word.  While some of Phil’s unfiltered comments to the reporter were coarse, his beliefs are grounded in the teachings of the Bible. Phil is a Godly man who follows what the Bible says are the greatest commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Phil would never incite or encourage hate. We are disappointed that Phil has been placed on hiatus for expressing his faith, which is his constitutionally protected right. We have had a successful working relationship with A&E but, as a family, we cannot imagine the show going forward without our patriarch at the helm.  We are in discussions with A&E to see what that means for the future of Duck Dynasty.   Again, thank you for your continued support of our family.

Duck Commander.com

Check this out, not only did sponsor Skyjacker pledge their support to Phil and the Robertson family and that they would stay with ‘Duck Dynasty,’ but according to TMZ, so is main sponsor Under Armour (UA).

The company adds, “We are obviously aware of the situation. And his comments are not indicative of Under Armour’s views.”

UA insists the company is committed to treating all people equally and with respect … even if Phil isn’t.

Duck Dynasty’s’ Phil Robertson on Indefinite Leave Afrter Following His Remarks on Homosexuality (Update: Phil Robertson Statement – ‘I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me’.)

Freedom of Speech & Religion is dead at ‘A&E” … GOOD GRIEF A&E, LET THEM BE!!!

Duck Dynasty is a huge success and loved by so many, but the show may be going the way of the Do-Do bird. A&E has placed Duck Dynasty patriarch Phil Robertson on indefinite leave after he dare speak the truth of his religious beliefs in an interview with GQ Magazine. So once again we see that a network does not believe in freedom of speech or freedom of religion for an individual to make comments on his own time that had nothing to do with the show, Duck Dynasty. The comments that got Phil Robertson in trouble:

“It seems like, to me, a vagina – as a man – would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me,” Robertson stated. “I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying? But hey, sin: It’s not logical, my man. It’s just not logical.”

Duck Dynasty: Facebook.

Hat Tip: The Drudge Report

It didn’t take long for the LEFT, GLAAD and LGBT community to go after their scalp.

From The Hollywood Reporter:

A note to A&E, Phil Robertson did not say that his comments or beliefs were that of A&E. So much for tolerance at A&E. The reason why 9 million people watch Duck Dynasty is because these folks are common, folksy people that many can relate to and are real. They are not a train wreck like most all reality shows. How shameful that A&E be pressured by GLAAD.

A&E has placed Duck Dynasty patriarch Phil Robertson on indefinite hiatus following anti-gay remarks he made in a recent profile in GQ.

“We are extremely disappointed to have read Phil Robertson’s comments in GQ, which are based on his own personal beliefs and are not reflected in the series Duck Dynasty,” A&E said in a statement. “His personal views in no way reflect those of A+E Networks, who have always been strong supporters and champions of the LGBT community. The network has placed Phil under hiatus from filming indefinitely.”

The news comes after Robertson compared homosexuality to bestiality in an interview with the magazine. He’ll likely appear in season four, which bows Jan. 15, since production is largely wrapped.

“It seems like, to me, a vagina — as a man — would be more desirable than a man’s anus,” Robertson says in the January issue of the men’s magazine. “That’s just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying? But hey, sin: It’s not logical, my man. It’s just not logical.”

Weasel Zippers adds, Phil Robertson said, “It seems like, to me, a vagina—as a man—would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me.” So true … and I would add that probably 99% of the men that watch Duck Dynasty probably feel the same.

UPDATE I: A&E released this statement from Phil Robertson addressing the controversy:

“I myself am a product of the 60s; I centered my life around sex, drugs and rock and roll until I hit rock bottom and accepted Jesus as my Savior. My mission today is to go forth and tell people about why I follow Christ and also what the Bible teaches, and part of that teaching is that women and men are meant to be together. However, I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me. We are all created by the Almighty and like Him, I love all of humanity. We would all be better off if we loved God and loved each other.” Beyond that.

UPDATE II: Just another case of MEDIA BIAS.

Many people have argued over the years, in the face of the obvious evidence, that the media cannot be systematically biased to the Left because it would not make business sense to spurn more than half the population as customers. However, the recent decision by A&E to fire its biggest and most lucrative TV star because it is more concerned about catering to homosexuals than making money vividly demonstrates that politics and propaganda are more important to the media companies than making a profit:

FEAR THE BEARD!!!

A&E best be very careful as a backlash boycott and protest of the network and their sponsors by the 9 million viewers of Duck Dynasty could be right around the corner. A&E might want to “Fear the Beard,” this down home, country family is more popular than A&E.

UPDATE III: Sarah Palin blasts A&E for their suspension of Phil Robertson; Declares free speech ‘endangered species.’