When former University of Missouri defensive end Michael Sam came out Sunday on ESPN, he made national news — becoming the first openly gay player to enter the NFL Draft.
Since then, social media has been abuzz about Sam, an All-American and the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. However, one of USF’s marquee signees, outside linebacker Vincent Jackson Jr., entered the discussion with a controversial tweet.
“I can’t play with a dude on my team knowing he wants what’s in my pants,” Jackson tweeted.
Jackson committed to USF on National Signing Day, Feb. 5.
The four-star recruit, as rated by ESPN.com, from Jesuit High School received offers from schools across the country such as Louisville, Oregon, Auburn, UCF and Michigan State — his last visit before signing, however, was to the University
of Missouri.
Since his tweet the night of Sam’s announcement, Jackson dealt with much backlash before apologizing.
“USF Athletics believes firmly in diversity and inclusion, and supports nothing less than treating all individuals with value and respect,” USF Associate Athletic Director for Communications Brian Siegrist said via email in response to requests for comment.
— Staff report
