Carl Nassib, a West Chester native, has been known as the first out gay active NFL player, writes Donald Padgett for AOL.

Nassib spoke about both his experience coming out and his football career. 

Nassib came out in June 2021 in an Instagram video. “What’s up people,” Nassib said. “I’m at my house in West Chester, Pennsylvania. I just wanted to take a quick moment to say that I’m gay. I’ve been meaning to do this for a while now but finally feel comfortable getting it off my chest. I really have the best life, the best family, friends, and job a guy can ask for.” 

He donated $100,000 to The Trevor Project, a nonprofit that provides support for LGBTQ+ youth. 

Nassib was nervous that coming out would change people’s perception of him and his football career. However, he dispelled any potential naysayers in his first game after coming out. During the game, he forced a fumble into overtime which led to a game-winning touchdown.  

“I felt really lucky that I could be on a big stage and, like, make a good play while representing the community,” Nassib said. “To be the first out player in a game and then to win.” 

He announced his retirement from the NFL in September 2023.

Read more about Carl Nassib’s NFL career and his LGBTQ+ advocacy at AOL.  

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