Michael Sam Gets Support From Michelle Obama, Jason Collins After Coming Out as first openly gay NFL player

With some calling him the Jackie Robinson of football, Mizzou defensive end Michael Sam made history over the weekend when he came out in advance of the NFL draft.

Great courage by SEC Def POY...It's time for the NFL to show it's colors!⚡️"NFL Prospect Michael Sam Comes Out http://t.co/HRKzwUeS2M"
— Tiki Barber (@TikiBarber) February 10, 2014

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Hall of Fame cornerback/receiver Deion "Prime Time" Sanders noted that Sam isn't, technically, the first gay player in the NFL, but just the first to announce it at the beginning of his career.

Michael Sam isn't the 1st gay player in the NFL although he is the 1st 2 come out.#realtalk Let's show him love like a family member. Truth
— DeionSanders (@DeionSanders) February 10, 2014

Read All About Sam's Decision To Come Out.
First Lady Michelle Obama called Sam an "inspiration" and said she and President Obama were proud of his courage.

You're an inspiration to all of us, @MikeSamFootball. We couldn't be prouder of your courage both on and off the field. -mo
— FLOTUS (@FLOTUS) February 10, 2014

Collins, who has not played in the NBA since his announcement, spent the weekend with Sam helping him navigate the reaction to the announcement and also praised his leadership.

For the past 2 days I have met with @MikeSamFootball here in LA. He is a great young man who has shown tremendous courage and leadership
— Jason Collins (@jasoncollins34) February 10, 2014

I can't wait to cheer for whatever lucky team that drafts @mikesamfootball. Personally I hope he goes to my favorite team. The @Colts
— Jason Collins (@jasoncollins34) February 10, 2014

There were, of course, some detractors and people who were less than supportive, including inactive wide receiver Chad Johnson, who wrote, "That took some courage but man his draft stock is going to plummet even though it should be based on production and how he can contribute!!"
Sam, though, chose to focus on the positive and thank those who encouraged him.

I want to thank everybody for their support and encouragement,especially @espn, @nytimes and @nfl. I am proud to tell my story to the world!
— Michael Sam (@MikeSamFootball) February 10, 2014