Former Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills defensive end Ryan K Russell says he spent the day in a state of "elation" after watching a video in which Carl Nassib became the first active NFL player to come out as gay. Yet for Russell - who himself came out in August 2019 - Nassib's name will now be synonymous when talking about key sporting moments involving LGBTQ+ athletes. In the 101-year history of the NFL, Nassib is the first active player to come out as gay although several players have done so after retirement or after leaving the league for other reasons. In a statement, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell added: "The NFL family is proud of Carl for courageously sharing his truth today. It means while Nassib is the first currently active player to come out, the race is still on for an openly gay player to take the field in a competitive match.

Source: BBC June 23, 2021 13:18 UTC