Former Missouri Tigers defensive end Michael Sam has admitted that he wants to be judged solely on his ability on the field ahead of the 2014 NFL Draft.
The 24-year-old has made headlines over the past month as he came out, raising the possibility that he could be the first openly gay player to play in the NFL.
He told reporters: "I just wish you guys would see me as Michael Sam the football player, not Michael Sam the gay football player."
Sam has been projected as a third to fifth round selection in the Draft, which takes place in May.