Tony Dungy explains his remarks on Michael Sam
NBC’s Tony Dungy joined the show to talk about his quotes in Ira Kaufman’s story for the Tampa Tribune. Here are some of Dungy’s comments:
— Dungy explained that the interview was about distractions and the Draft and he gave the quote when the Oprah documentary series was still in play for Sam.
— Dungy wanted to make it clear that he supports Michael Sam being on the Rams: “I do believe he should be there and I’m glad he is.”
— Dungy answered Dan’s question about how he can say Sam would be a distraction if he can support players like Michael Vick or Jonathan Martin — who could be perceived as distractions” If we substitute Jonathan Martin for Michael Sam, no one is going to replay those quotes two, three months later.”
— Dungy said that he would not draft based on a player’s religious views: “When you go into coaching, you have a responsibility to deliver a good football team to your owner.”
— Dungy said his views on gay marriage would not affect the way he drafted: “Gay marriage and who should be on a football team have nothing to do with each other.”
— Dungy said that he was disappointed that people said he was “anti-gay.”