Subscribe
The Daily Grind Video
CLOSE

It appears the St. Louis Rams aren’t as excited about Michael Sam’s OWN documentary as we are!

The docu-series that the Oprah Winfrey Network planned to create, chronicling the ups and downs of the first openly gay athlete to be drafted by the NFL, has been sidelined for now. Both OWN and Sam’s agent confirmed these reports Friday.

Though the Rams – who picked up Michael as their 249th draft pick – have not openly expressed their distaste for the OWN series, there has been a lot of buzz suggesting the team is concerned the series would distract Sam from the upcoming season.

“After today’s meeting with the Rams, we collectively feel it is best to postpone the project,” Sam’s agent, Cameron Weiss, said in a statement.

“This will allow for Michael to have a total focus on football, and will ensure no distractions to his teammates. Everybody involved remains committed to this project and understands its historical importance as well as it’s positive message.”

The network met with the Rams and ultimately came to the decision that it would be best to hold off on the project “allowing Michael the best opportunity to achieve his dream of making the team.”

“OWN is about elevating and empowering people to achieve their best. It’s clear that we, along with the world, recognize the important opportunity that Michael now has in this moment. We will continue to support him in his journey to earn a spot playing for the Rams,” they continued.

Just a few short days ago Sam tweeted his excitement about sharing his journey with the world.

“We are honored that Michael is trusting us with his private journey in this moment that has not only made history but will shape it forever,” Oprah Winfrey said in a statement issued on the series. “I am proud of the focus on authentic storytelling in our new documentary series format. The next real-life story we follow in The Untitled Michael Sam Project promises to spark valuable, important discussion on life in America today. Acceptance and illumination start here.”

We wish Michael the best of luck in training camp and look forward to seeing him in the upcoming season!

SOURCE: E! Online