Could San Francisco land both Michael Sam and Jonathan Martin?
Many have already speculated that openly gay Missouri defensive end Michael Sam’s post draft landing spot would be best in San Francisco.
The 49ers have long established relationships with the local gay community. They courted their vote in the 1990′s to pass the now defunct stadium measure. Then owner Eddie DeBartolo and other 49ers officials campaigned in the Castro District. Which means Sam would more than likely be welcomed, especially with Colin Kaepernick backing Sam in the media today.
“I think when he steps into that locker room everyone’s going to know that he’s there to help us win games,” Kaepernick said. “That’s why you’re in the NFL — to help us win games. No one cares if you’re black, white, straight, gay, Christian, Jewish, whatever it may be. When you step on that field, you’re a member of, in my case, the 49ers. Or the Carolina Panthers. That’s your job. That’s your occupation.”
Similarly, harassed former Miami left tackle Jonathan Martin played for 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh at Stanford. Harbaugh voiced support for Martin throughout his ordeal with Richie Incognito.
“As far as that situation, there’s only one thing I can intelligently comment on and that’s knowing Jonathan Martin,” Harbaugh said. “I know him to be a fine person and his family. (He was a) great contributor as a student and an athlete at Stanford, epitomizes the student-athlete model and a personal friend. I support Jonathan.”
The 49ers have searched for swing tackle for years, and Martin can be that guy. For the last two seasons, that guy has been Alex Boone, who also is a starting right guard. Could these moves make sense for the Niners?
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