Michael Sam revealed on Twitter that he’s taking an extended hiatus from football. The ESPY award winner said this past year was a trying time for him, stating things became strenuous “to the point where I became concerned with my mental health.”
READ: NFL Prospect Michael Sam Opens Up About Being Gay
He continued, “Because of this I am going to step away from the game at this time. I thank the Alouettes for this opportunity and hope to be back on the field soon.”
The last 12 months have been very difficult for me, to the point where I became concerned with my mental health. Because of this I am 1/3
— Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) August 14, 2015
going to step away from the game at this time. I thank the Alouettes for this opportunity and hope to be back on the field soon. Thank 2/3
— Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) August 14, 2015
you all for your understanding and support. 3/3
— Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) August 14, 2015
Sam signed a two-year contract with Montreal’s Alouettes, to which they also issued a statement to E! News on his resolution.
“The Montreal Alouettes fully respect Michael Sam’s decision and rally around him to offer him all time and support needed. The team has left the door open and Michael is welcome to come back whenever he feels ready.”
READ: Michael Sam Scores OWN Docu-Series
Sam made strides within the sports realm as the first openly gay athlete drafted to the NFL and was initially part of the St. Louis Rams’ roster. He was later cut by the team in August 2014.