By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Private Policy and Terms of Use.
WATCH: Giants Encourage Gay Players in Football
WATCH: Giants Encourage Gay Players in Football
"If you can play, you can play," they insist, without saying the word "gay."
The Giants are the first NFL team to do a "You Can Play" video, which make the point that athletes should be judged only on their skills.
The video includes cornerback Prince Amakumara, kicker Josh Brown, wide receiver Victor Cruz, defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins, offensive lineman Weston Richburg, running back Shane Vereen, and Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson.
The video debuted today before the Giants played the Dallas Cowboys, where Michael Sam had played briefly on the practice squad before being cut. Sam is the only out player to be drafted by an NFL team, but he never played in the regular season, leaving that first yet to happen.
In all of major men's team sports, Robbie Rogers of Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy is the only out player.
"The entire Giants organization has committed to inclusion for all, including LGBT athletes and fans," said Wade Davis, executive director for You Can Play, in a statement. Davis is a former NFL player who came out after leaving the sport, as a small number of other players have done, including Esera Tuaolo and David Kopay. "The vocal support of alumni like Harry Carson, the Giants' front office staff, and current players sends a giant message to all sports fans, especially young fans, everywhere. We are thrilled that the Giants are leading the charge in the NFL for LGBT inclusion."
OutSports was first to report the video and noted it has a fairly significant omission.
"The words 'gay,' 'LGBT' or 'homophobia' are not spoken," writes Jim Buzinski, "so people unaware of what YCP stands for might not know what video is talking about. Still, it's great that the Giants have stepped up and let's hope more NFL teams follow suit."
Watch the video below:
