Multiple Gay Football Players Preparing to Come Out of the Closet?

Former Baltimore Ravens player Brendon Ayanbadejo has created a bit of a stir after telling the media earlier in the week that there is not just one current NFL players that is contemplating coming out of the metaphorical closet, but multiple players.

It's been said that as many as four could do so with the idea being that the media scrutiny would be less intense sine it will be spread out over four locker rooms instead of just one.

The logic makes complete sense, and could be instrumental in such a landmark event in professional sports taking place. While there have been several athletes that have publicly given support of gay players in the NFL, the attention that the media and fans are expected to give is what has been concerning. 

Should only one player come out it is not inconceivable to see the media descend on that person and his team like fat guys around a buffet table. However, should there be more than one--well, the logistics in coverage both will make it impossible to give multiple players such intense coverage.

What is surprising to me about this whole story so far is not that a gay players or more than one gay player is thinking about coming out, but the fact that no one has a clue--or is not willing to speculate-- at who they might be.

From Brendon's comments it sounds like he and some other people have been talking to some players in hopes of getting them to come out together:

"We’re in talks with a handful of players who are considering it. There are up to four players being talked to right now and they’re trying to be organized so they can come out on the same day together. It would make a major splash and take the pressure off one guy. It would be a monumental day if a handful or a few guys come out."

Who else is doing these 'talks?' Is there really not a single enterprising young reporter or tabloid that has not tried to shadow Brendon or whomever is involved in these talks to see who they are in talks with? Come on! I know I can't be the only one to think of this!

It would be a pretty big step for the people that do agree to be the first active pro players to come out. However, while Brendon has made it appear as if it could happen soon, the fact is that it very likely will not. His comments in another interview clarify where the situation actually is; more conceptual than actual.



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