Michael Sam

• By: Joe James
• On: 06/15/2015 12:16:36
• In: krwexamplecategory1

The Montreal Alouettes announced they've placed defensive end Michael Sam on their suspended list Monday, three days after he left the team's training camp for personal reasons.

Moving Sam to the suspended list frees up his roster spot as Montreal continues making adjustments to prepare for the regular season. The team also announced the release of six players Monday.

Sam, 25, left Montreal training camp Friday for undisclosed "personal reasons." The Alouettes said in a statement he would be allowed to come back to the team, though it's unclear if he will do so: "The Montreal Alouettes fully respect Michael Sam's decision, and we rally around him to offer all the support needed. The team has left the door open, and Michael is welcome to come back whenever he feels ready."

A former SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2013, Sam signed a two-year contract with Montreal last month. He came to the CFL after stops with the St. Louis Rams and Dallas Cowboys in 2014. Sam, the first openly gay player selected in the NFL draft, was cut by St. Louis and Dallas for roster considerations.