The question of whether a gay NFL player would be accepted by teammates and coaches has been tackled on several occasions. Carl Nassib, for example, received public support from his teammates on the Las Vegas Raiders before being recruited by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Similarly, Michael Sam played with the Rams during the preseason without issues, demonstrating some level of acceptance within the league.
Notably, Dallas Cowboys legend Michael Irvin has been vocal about his support for gay players, indicating that he would have fostered a supportive environment in the Cowboys locker room. Buffalo Bills legend Bruce Smith also acknowledged having at least one gay teammate during his career.
Despite these examples, there remains skepticism about how current NFL head coaches would react if one of their players were to come out publicly as gay. This article ranks the remaining eight head coaches in the NFL playoffs, all of whom are contenders for Super Bowl LIX, based on their and their teams' support for the LGBTQ+ community. Each coach and team has been given a score from 0 to 5, with combined results determining the rankings.
Dan Quinn and the Washington Commanders
Score: Coach 3, Team 4 - Total: 7
Dan Quinn has shown openness to LGBTQ+ issues. While with the Atlanta Falcons, he addressed inappropriate questions asked of potential draftee Eli Apple regarding his sexual orientation, labeling such inquiries as unacceptable. Moreover, Quinn supported the hire of Katie Sowers as a coaching intern. The Washington Commanders were the first NFL team to host an official Pride Night and have made efforts to create an inclusive environment.
Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams
Score: Coach 1, Team 5 - Total: 6
The Rams have a history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community, including drafting Michael Sam, the first openly gay player in the NFL, although he did not make the final team roster. They have continued to support LGBTQ+ initiatives in Los Angeles. Coach Sean McVay has not publicly addressed LGBTQ+ issues, but his silence has not been negative.
Nick Sirianni and the Philadelphia Eagles
Score: Coach 1, Team 4 - Total: 5
Nick Sirianni has not publicly addressed LGBTQ+ topics, but the Eagles have a strong track record of supporting gay fans and the community, including having one of the first openly gay NFL cheerleaders.
Sean McDermott and the Buffalo Bills
Score: Coach 1, Team 3 - Total: 4
Coach McDermott has not harmed the LGBTQ+ cause, and the Bills have embraced the local LGBTQ+ flag football league, showing community support.
DeMeco Ryans and the Houston Texans
Score: Coach 1, Team 2 - Total: 3
DeMeco Ryans has not been outspoken on LGBTQ+ rights. Previously, the Texans opposed an anti-trans ordinance, but current leadership may have different views.
Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs
Score: Coach 3, Team 0 - Total: 3
Andy Reid has not been vocal about LGBTQ+ issues but is known for his inclusive leadership style. However, the team has faced criticism for not addressing homophobic comments from a player.
Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions
Score: Coach 1, Team 1 - Total: 2
Dan Campbell has acknowledged past mistakes regarding offensive language, showing willingness to learn and grow. The Lions have had historical issues with anti-gay comments, needing further public commitment to inclusivity.
John Harbaugh and the Baltimore Ravens
Score: Coach 1, Team 1 - Total: 2
John Harbaugh has made comments in the past about wanting "real men" on his team, which raised questions. The Ravens have faced internal debate on LGBTQ+ rights, and a player has made homophobic comments without issuing a proper apology.
Overall, while the NFL has made strides in accepting LGBTQ+ players, there remains room for improvement, particularly in creating a culture where coaches are proactive in their support and advocacy.
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