Sending the social media into a frenzy, Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Carl Nassib came out as gay on Monday, making him the first active NFL player to do so. 

The 28-year-old, who has been active in the NFL scene for 5 years, said in a video on Instagram that he hoped his example would boost the visibility of other gay athletes. 

Soon after the announcement, the Raiders praised Nassib in a post on Twitter. “Proud of you Carl,” the team wrote in a post accompanying Nassib’s Instagram statement.

Meanwhile, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell saluted Nassib, saying he hoped similar announcements in future would no longer be newsworthy.

“The NFL family is proud of Carl for courageously sharing his truth today,” Goodell said.

“Representation matters. We share his hope that someday soon statements like his will no longer be newsworthy as we march toward full equality for the LGBTQ+ community.

“We wish Carl the best of luck this coming season.”

One of a handful of former NFL players, Wade Davis II, who came out after leaving the league, was among the first to congratulate Nassib.

“Bravo Carl Nassib — thank you for inviting us in,” Davis wrote on Twitter.

Former basketball player Jason Collins, who became only the second openly gay athlete in a major professional sports league in the United States when he joined the Brooklyn Nets in 2014 also offered support.

“Very proud of Carl Nassib!” Collins wrote on Twitter. “Incredibly happy for him and can’t wait to watch him play this upcoming season.”

American tennis legend, Billie Jean King took to Twitter to congratulate Nassib: “The ability to live an authentic life is so important.

Sending love and support to Carl Nassib of the @Raiders, who has bravely made history as the 1st active NFL player to come out. He has also donated $100K to @TrevorProject.

Representation and visibility matter!”

The Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, too appreciated Nassib’s bravery to come out. “Representation matters. Thank you Carl Nassib for your incredible courage,” he wrote.

ALSO READ | NFL’s Cole Beasley says he would rather retire than take COVID vaccine

Among the widespread support, writer Charlotte Clymer too tweeted about the incredible impact Nassib’s step would have on the young people.

“I wish I could adequately explain what this means to me. I played high school football, and the thought of a gay man in the NFL was incomprehensible back then. Carl Nassib is going to have such an enormously positive impact on LGBTQ young people struggling with acceptance.”

Meanwhile, American activist Chely Wright cited how Nassib’s declaration would change the hearts of millions. “Way to go #CarlNassib.

Your bold declaration will change the hearts and minds of millions, that’s for sure.

But more profoundly, your courageous authenticity will save lives.

Well done, Carl.”