Using Sam

The NFL will broadcast their Free Agent Combine tonight in prime time. The event is a chance for players to display their skills in a hope of getting an invitation to a training camp.

Michael Sam, the first openly gay player will be there. He was the 2013 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, but fell to the late 7th round in the draft after announcing he was gay. He lasted until the final cut with the St Louis Rams and later spent time on the practice squad of the Dallas Cowboys.

Sam never got another chance. It remains to be seen what will happen from here, but it hasn't stopped the NFL from using his image in one of its promotions for the telecast. They assume it will help draw viewers.