Carl Nassib, who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is the first active NFL player to come out as gay. In an Instagram video shared in June 2021, Carl opened up about his sexuality and expressed his gratitude for the support he'd been given so far from his teammates and coaches.
Dave Kopay
Former football player Dave Kopay was the first major professional athlete to come out in any sport. He shared his truth in a 1975 interview, several years after he retired from football.
Michael Sam
Michael Sam was still in college playing for the Missouri Tigers when he came out as gay. In 2014, he went on to become the first out player ever drafted by a professional team when he was recruited by the St. Louis Rams.
Colton Underwood
Colton Underwood played for several football teams including the San Diego Chargers and the Oakland Raiders before retiring from the sport in 2016.
Ryan O'Callaghan
In 2006, Ryan O'Callaghan was drafted by the New England Patriots. He went on to play professionally for 5 years, including time with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Kwame Harris
Kwame Harris played in the NFL for five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders before retiring after the 2008 season.