Michael Sam Says He Wishes He Wouldn't Have Been Selected in NFL Draft

Michael Sam now says he wishes he had gone through the 2014 NFL draft without being selected. 

During an interview on The Herd with Colin Cowherd (h/t Joe Rodgers of the Sporting News), Sam said St. Louis' crowded defensive line made it hard for him to get an opportunity. 

"

If I had it my way I really do wish I went undrafted. I could have actually gone to a team who really needed the pass rush and needed a defensive end that could pass rush the quarterback.

But the Rams — even though I learned a lot from Chris Long and [Robert] Quinn, I think I could have done better and be on an active roster right now if I went to a different team.

"

The Rams selected Sam, who became the first openly gay player drafted into the NFL, in the seventh round last year. He did play well in the preseason, recording 11 tackles and three sacks, but was cut by the team prior to the start of the regular season. 

The former SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year later signed with the Dallas Cowboys practice squad before being released in Oct. 2014. He participated in the NFL's first veterans combine in March, posting a less-than-stellar 4.99-second 40-yard dash time.

Hoping to continue his football career, the 25-year-old signed with the Canadian Football League's Montreal Alouettes before announcing on Twitter this past August he was leaving the league to get a mental break.

"

The last 12 months have been very difficult for me, to the point where I became concerned with my mental health. 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.

"

Sam went on to say that he "absolutely" still wants to play in the NFL, and he's still training to get an opportunity. 

Being able to pick a spot might have helped Sam's chances of sticking in the NFL. He's still young enough to warrant a look from organizations in need of help on defense but will likely have to improve on the last workout at the combine to get serious consideration.