ESPN’s Josina Anderson On Rams Coverage: I Empathize With Michael Sam

After Josina Anderson’s report on St. Louis Rams defensive end Michael Sam’s showering habits outraged many, ESPN apologized for “(failing) to meet the standards we have set in reporting on LGBT-related topics in sports.”

On Friday, it was Anderson’s turn, though what she gave wasn’t exactly an apology.

“I wanted to take this opportunity to say I understand the vast and varying perspectives regarding our Michael Sam report.” Anderson wrote in a statement. “I’m particularly sensitive to those who feel the content therein worked to perpetuate stereotypes surrounding the LGBT community, or was just overall insensitive. In all humility, I truly understand these viewpoints and have taken time to reflect on how our story had this unintended consequence.

“To Michael Sam, I truly empathize with and respect your journey thus far on many different levels. Ultimately, I’ve always believed making a professional sports roster should and will come down to production.”

There was more Sam news beyond Anderson’s statement Friday. USA Today’s Tom Pelissero reported that Sam was not among the initial cuts the Rams made before Saturday’s 4 p.m. ET deadline.

[tweet https://twitter.com/TomPelissero/status/505468281898024960 align=’center’]