Former Bear Takes Stand For Gay Marriage; Draws Ire Of Politician
(WSCR) Special teams standout Brendon Ayanbadejo spent four seasons with the Bears, earning Pro Bowl nods in 2006 and 07.
But Ayanbadejo, now a linebacker for the Ravens, cares about much more than simply football. In fact, he cares deeply about politics and took a stand by publicly endorsing gay marriage.
His comments, however, didn't sit well with Emmert C. Burns Jr., a democrat in the Maryland House of Delegates representing Baltimore County's District 10. In fact, Burns sent a letter to Ravens owner Steve Biscotti, asking him to silence Ayanbadejo.
"I find it inconceivable that one of your players, Mr. Brendon Ayanbadejo, would publicly endorse Same-Sex marriage, specifically as a Ravens football player," Burns writes.
"I am requesting that you take the necessary action, as a National Football League Owner, to inhibit such expressions from your employees and that he be ordered to cease and desist such injurious actions. I know of no other NFL player who has done what Mr. Ayanbadejo is doing."
Ayanbadejo took the Congressman's comments in stride, though.
"I'd have to thank him more than anything for bringing national attention to the issue," he said Friday.
