Los Angeles: Michael Sam has decided to take a break from playing football, a week after making his debut with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League.
Sam made history as the first openly gay player drafted by a National Football League team when he was taken in the seventh round by the St Louis Rams last year.
“The last 12 months have been very difficult for me, to the point where I became concerned with my mental health,” said Sam.
“Because of this I am going to step away from the game at this time. I thank the Alouettes for this opportunity and hope to be back on the field soon. Thank you all for your understanding and support.”
The college defensive standout was released by the Rams during the pre-season, before being picked up and then let go by the Dallas Cowboys.
After opting to pursue his career in the CFL, Sam had briefly left the Alouettes during training camp for personal reasons but returned after a fortnight.
Sam made his debut for the Alouettes last Friday, becoming the first openly gay player to appear in a CFL contest.
Sam played sparingly as the Alouettes lost to the Ottawa Redblacks 26-23 in Ottawa, Ontario.
