FILE - In this Sept. 8, 2012 file photo, Missouri's Michael Sam (52) runs onto the field along with their teammates before the start of an NCAA college football game against Georgia in Columbia, Mo. Sam was selected in the seventh round, 249th overall, by the St. Louis Rams in the NFL draft Saturday, May 10, 2014. The Southeastern Conference defensive player of the year last season for Missouri came out as gay in media interviews this year. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File) (The Associated Press)
ST. LOUIS – Rams coach Jeff Fisher was on the telephone with owner Stan Kroenke two picks before taking Michael Sam.
Fisher got the go-ahead. And the Rams, forward-thinking and loaded with picks to spare in the draft, took the plunge on a player who will forever be known as the first openly gay player drafted by an NFL team.
The Rams drafted Sam based on the Missouri ability — and with confidence they're ready for the sideshow that surely will follow.
Fisher and general manager Les Snead didn't check with players before the historic pick. So far they haven't been disappointed with expectations Sam would be welcomed with open arms, just like any other new teammate.
If problems develop, Fisher said, he'll nip them in the bud.
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