General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsIs Michael Sam a fit for trailblazing Raiders?
The Raiders have never cared much for convention. Deceased owner Al Davis was a trailblazer in several respects, especially in the hiring process. He made Tom Flores the first Latino head coach. Art Shell was the modern eras first African American head coach. CEO Amy Trask was the NFLs first female front-office executive.
Al Davis stance on players was similarly open. If you could jump high and run fast and hit hard and throw deep, you could be a Raider. As the old saying goes: Just Win, Baby.
The new regime operates under a similar code. Missouri defensive end Michael Sam will be evaluated as a football player, and his sexuality will not impact that grade. The reigning SEC defensive player of the year publicly came out as gay on Sunday night in interviews with the New York Times and ESPN.
The Oakland Raiders have long championed diversity and opportunity, Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said in a statement. The organization will evaluate Michael Sam based purely on his ability as a football player.
The Raiders have also placed high emphasis on character in recent seasons, and it's clear Sam has plenty of that.
http://www.csnbayarea.com/raiders/michael-sam-fit-trailblazing-raiders?p=ya5nbcs&ocid=yahoo
NobodyHere
(2,810 posts)The Raiders went from "Just Win, Baby" to "Just don't f&*^ up too badly.
Logical
(22,457 posts)aint_no_life_nowhere
(21,925 posts)former9thward
(32,121 posts)At 6'2" and 255 lbs he is pretty small.
Blue_Tires
(55,445 posts)former9thward
(32,121 posts)He tried out at that position at the Senior Bowl last month and according to scouts it didn't go too well. But maybe with the right coaching and practice...
awoke_in_2003
(34,582 posts)to be drafted by that black hole of the NFL. Hell, even Cleveland might be better.
JRLeft
(7,010 posts)organization in football.
awoke_in_2003
(34,582 posts)they should be recognized for what they have done.
DiverDave
(4,890 posts)Altho I saw the Green Bay coach talk like a human being today...
I just cant figure out why people don't want a good player.
The Seahawks should take him if he drops to them.