NFL’s Chris Kluwe Expects To Be Cut Today: Salary, Age, LGBT Activism Cited

Chris Kluwe expects to be cut from the NFL Vikings today, and his age, salary, and LGBT activism have been cited as possible reasons why. The 31-year old has made a name for himself not only for his on-field expertise, but for his off-field support of same-sex marriage and equality for all.

The New Civil Rights Movement reported last month Kluwe had anticipated this fate: LGBT Ally Chris Kluwe: ‘Speaking Out On Human Rights Has A Chance Of Getting You Cut’.

WATCH: NFL’s Chris Kluwe Explains To Ellen His Marriage Equality Support

Speaking about the possibility of losing his job, the Minnesota Vikings punter says that if his activism “ends up being something that costs me that position, I think making people aware of an issue that is causing children to commit suicide is more important than kicking a leather ball,” Kluwe told the Minnesota Star-Tribune, adding, “I think the sacrifice would be worth it.”

Kluwe earned the activism spotlight after defending Brendon Ayanbadejo, the Falcons linebacker who was recently cut, possibly also for his LGBT activism.

“Regardless of whether they admit it, the Vikings are jettisoning Kluwe partly because they grew tired of his outspokennessIt’s naive to think the move is based solely on his age (31), salary ($1.45 million) or how he performed last season (inconsistently). Kluwe has become the most visible punter in NFL history because of his social activism. The Vikings deny that Kluwe’s public stance on issues factored into their decision — not that they would ever admit it — but they likely prefer someone who embraces the anonymous life of an NFL punter.

Kluwe has developed a wide audience and become a polarizing figure as a staunch advocate for same-sex marriage. Whether it’s gay rights, player safety or Ray Guy’s omission from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Kluwe isn’t afraid to voice his opinion. And he refuses to apologize for that, even if it contributes to his exit.

“This is me,” he said. “I pay attention to what goes on in the world, and I like to speak up when I see something.”

Kluwe’s departure will make the Vikings locker room a lot more dull because he is incredibly intelligent, articulate and passionate about societal issues. He’s a fascinating individual in a sport that breeds conformity. The NFL has become so big and so powerful that players often cling to political correctness for fear that a ripple might swell into a tidal wave. Kluwe is that surfer dude on top of the wave, hanging 10 on any issue that stirs his emotion.
On a personal note, I had the honor of seeing both Kluwe and Ayanbadejo at this year’s GLAAD Awards in New York City. My thanks to both stars for their support and heroism.

Kluwe’s activism extends far and wide. A tweet he sent this weekend:

Please note that the Statue of Liberty is not holding a sword. We could learn something from that, I think.

— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) May 5, 2013

 

Image by Freedom to Marry via Flickr

Related:

NFL Punter And Straight Ally Chris Kluwe Talks ‘Lustful Cockmonster’ With Stephen Colbert

NFL Vikings Star Punter And LGBT Advocate Takes On Ohio Vote Suppression 

Pro-Gay NFL Player Says ‘Cockmonster’ In Best Letter Ever Written To An Anti-Gay Lawmaker

Ellen Says Chris Kluwe’s Activism ‘Is How You Change The World’