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Michael Sam leaves Montreal Alouettes’ training camp

South Dakota State v Missouri

COLUMBIA , MO - AUGUST 30: Former Missouri Tiger Michael Sam attends a game between the Missouri Tigers and South Dakota State Jackrabbits at Memorial Stadium on August 30, 2014 in Columbia, Missouri. The St. Louis Rams announced today they were releasing Sam on the final day of cuts. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images)

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The CFL’s Montreal Alouettes have confirmed that Michael Sam left the team’s training camp and headed home to Texas today, citing unspecified personal reasons

“With all due respect for Michael Sam, the nature of this decision will remain confidential,” the team said in a statement. “The Montreal Alouettes fully respect Michael Sam’s decision and rally around him to offer him all time and support needed. The team has left the door open and Michael is welcome to come back whenever he feels ready.”

Sam was the first openly gay player to be drafted in the NFL when the Rams selected him last year. He was cut by the Rams despite playing well in the preseason and then cut after a brief stint on the Cowboys’ practice squad.

After failing to catch on with any NFL teams, Sam signed with the Alouettes last month. Montreal’s first preseason game is tomorrow night.