NFL Players React to Raiders' Carl Nassib Coming out as Gay

Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Carl Nassib made history this week by becoming the first active [...]

By Brian Jones

Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Carl Nassib made history this week by becoming the first active NFL player to come out as gay. Nassib shared the news on his Instagram page and also announced he would donate $100,000 to The Trevor Project, a crisis support service for the LGBTQ+ community.

"Just wanted to take a quick moment to say that I'm gay," Nassib said in his announcement video posted on Instagram. "I've been meaning to do this for a while now, but I finally feel comfortable enough to get it off my chest. I really have the best life. I've got the best family, friends and job a guy could ask for.

"I'm a pretty private person, so I hope you guys know I'm not really doing this for attention. I just think that representation and visibility are so important. I actually hope that one day videos like this and the whole coming out process are just not necessary. But until then, I'm going to do my best and do my part to cultivate a culture that's accepting, that's compassionate." Nassib received a ton of support from the NFL community. Here's a look at NFL players sending messages to Nassib.

NFL

Here's a look at the video made by Nassib. The Raiders replied to the tweet with three hearts showing how much they love Nassib for having the strength and courage to make the announcement.

Derek Carr

Nassib's teammate, Derek Carr, had some great things to say about him. Carr mentioned Nassib as part of the "family" and he wants to "win a championship" with him and the rest of the guys.

Saquon Barkley

The New York Giants running back loved the video. One person replied: "Raiders always the leaders in social awareness and inclusion for all. Art Shell first black head coach, HOF Tom Flores first Hispanic coach, Amy Trask first women football CEO. Now Nassib first active gay players. Equality and inclusion for all."

Julian Edelman

The former New England Patriots wide receiver is also supporting Nassib. One fan replied: "Jules, every time I turn-around, you impress us in so many ways; on and off the field! Way to go, to one of the best ever!"

Warren Moon

Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Moon is happy times are changing. "We live in a different time now where diversity is much more accepted. Cheers Carl, and I hope this lets other athletes know, its OK to say who you are." Moon wrote in a follow-up Tweet.

Bo Jackson

Bo Jackson is always going to support his fellow Raiders. One fan replied: "I never thought I could look up to you more, for the last 35 years, and then you go and do this, and upped it higher."

Michael Sam

Michael Sam knows exactly what Nassib is going through. Sam was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in 2014. Before that, Sam came out as gay but was never able to play in an NFL game.

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