In 2021, Carl Nassib made history as the first openly gay player in the NFL while still active in the league. The significance of that moment reshaped the landscape of sports. Since then, Nassib has proven to be a true role model. A powerful example of his influence emerged shortly after he came out, when his father encountered a visibly emotional woman.

Although Nassib’s father knew the woman, they weren’t particularly close. Regardless, her son had seen Nassib’s coming-out video, and that sparked his own decision to come out to his family. She shared this heartfelt story with Nassib’s father, who then relayed it to Carl. This was just the beginning of many transformative moments instigated by Nassib.

By coming out, Nassib didn’t merely pave the way for future NFL players; he laid the groundwork for individuals across all walks of life. Describing his actions as historic falls short; Nassib is continually striving to make a positive difference.

Nassib remains committed to one of his primary missions: ensuring a safer environment for LGBTQ+ youth.

“When I came out in 2021, I anticipated it would attract a lot of attention,” Nassib shared with YSL News Sports. “I aimed to redirect that attention to a valuable cause.”

“I want everyone to understand the realities surrounding LGBTQ youth,” Nassib continued. “Many aren’t aware that these young individuals are four times more likely to engage in self-harm compared to their peers. Research shows that having just one supportive adult in their life can reduce the risk of suicide by 40%. So, whether you’re an uncle, aunt, or coach, you can be that supportive figure and potentially save a life.”

The Trevor Project reports that over 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youths (ages 13-24) contemplate suicide each year in the U.S., with at least one such attempt happening every 45 seconds.

Research from the organization also revealed that 68% of LGBTQ+ youth have never participated in sports, often due to fears of discrimination or harassment from peers and coaches, worries about how others might perceive their LGBTQ+ identity, and rules preventing them from joining teams that align with their gender identity.

Nassib is determined to change this situation. It’s his most important battle.

Having wrapped up his last season in the NFL in 2022, Nassib has been quite active since his coming out. He leads Rayze, an organization that links nonprofits with volunteers and donors. Rayze has also teamed up with the NFL’s My Cause/My Cleats initiative.

This journey has been enriching for Nassib, who describes it as follows:

“It’s been incredibly fulfilling. It’s energizing. I’m driven to find solutions. I dream of a world where no child feels the need to harm themselves; they can be their authentic selves without fear.”

“I feel fortunate every day to live my life authentically. This is only possible because of the amazing individuals who’ve come before me in my community and the supporters who have stood by me. I’ve enjoyed many privileges, rights, and opportunities, and I strongly feel a responsibility to ensure these continue, so future generations can experience an even better journey than mine.”

This desire to uplift others is just one of the many qualities that define Nassib.