Jeff Fisher: Michael Sam has not been a distraction for Rams

St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher said rookie defensive end Michael Sam, who is the first openly gay player in league history, has not been a distraction to the team.

St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher said rookie defensive end Michael Sam, who is the first openly gay player in league history, has not been a distraction to the team.

Speaking on ESPN Radio, Fisher dispelled the idea of additional media coverage impacting the team.

“Let’s define distraction. There were a couple of extra cameras during early OTAs. There may have been an extra camera yesterday as rookies reported and went on the field the first time. Mike’s a very passionate athlete. He’s very focused on trying to make this football team." 

Former NFL coach Tony Dungy made headlines earlier this week for saying he would not have drafted Sam because of possible distractions, though Dungy later clarified his comments on the subject.

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Sam was drafted in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL draft by the Rams.

[h/t Pro Football Talk]

- Paul Palladino