Does Jacksonville Jaguars assistant coach Kevin Maxen have the franchise’s support after coming out as gay?
In a sport that has historically positioned itself as one that only ‘real men’ can be a part of, how the league reacts will be interesting to see, to say the least.
Though one could reasonably question why such declarations are newsworthy, the reality is we do still live in a world where there is much work to be done when it comes to tolerance, acceptance, and equality. Hopefully, moves such as the one made by the Jaguars’ coach, will not only inspire others to do the same, but to be appreciative of those who do as well.
Jaguars’ Kevin Maxen confirms that he is gay
Earlier this week, the NFL and its fans were given some surprising news, when Jacksonville Jaguars assistant coach, Kevin Maxen disclosed that he is gay. “I don’t want to feel like I have to think about it anymore,” Maxen said. “I don’t want to feel like I have to lie about who I am seeing or why I am living with someone else.” With his declaration, Maxen becomes only the second openly gay coach in the league and the first male one. Indeed, back in 2017 former San Francisco 49ers assistant coach, Katie Sowers, took a similar path.
As for Maxen, who has been with the Jaguars since 2021, he is currently listed as one of the team’s three assistant strength and conditioning coaches. Prior to his time in Jacksonville, he worked in a similar role at Baylor and Vanderbilt, and even played as a Division III linebacker.
What have the Jaguars said about Kevin Maxen’s move?
Clearly in support of their coach, the Jaguars were clear in their stance when it came to Maxen’s move, with franchise owner Shad Khan making a personal comment. “Kevin is a Jacksonville Jaguar through and through, and a key member of our football team and community,” Khan said following Maxen’s announcement. “I look forward to seeing Kevin next week at training camp, and hope that he comes to work each day during camp and through the season feeling confident, free, and at peace. I know our players and staff feel the same.” Incidentally, Maxen’s decision to share about himself with the public comes just two years after former Browns, Buccaneers and Raiders linebacker Carl Nassib became the first active NFL player to open up about being gay.