During Monday Night Football, Raider’s Carl Nassib led his team to victory over the Ravens and made history as the first active gay player in the NFL.

“Carl Nassib has made a big impact off the field by opening up about his sexuality and showing people to be brave,” said Anthony Marchand (‘23).

There have been many gay NFL players before Nassib, such as Kwame Harris and Ryan O’Callaghan, but they opened up about their sexuality after their retirement. The difference is most of them had the fear of being targeted or mistreated while playing in the NFL due to their sexuality.

“I think [Carl Nassib coming out] will serve as a trickle effect and more people will start to open up which is good,” said Sean Cervantes (‘24).

During LGBTQ Pride Month in June, the NFL took to their social media in support of the LGBTQ community and Carl Nassib. The NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, also stood behind Carl Nassib and the LGBTQ community with a statement he made in June.  

“The NFL family is proud of Carl for courageously sharing his truth today. Representation matters. We share his hope that someday soon statements like his will no longer be newsworthy as we march toward full equality for the LGBTQ+ community,” said Goodell. 

On and off the field, Carl Nassib has been impactful for many. He came up big for the Raiders’ opening season win, with a fumble in overtime to give the Raiders the opportunity to win on a game winning drive.

“When watching the game, Carl Nassib gave 100% on the field and put the work in to push the Raiders to a win,” said Marchand.