Kansas State OT Scott Frantz Could Become First Openly Gay Player on NFL 53-Man Roster This Fall

The 2020 NFL Draft is seeping with compelling storylines, but Kansas State offensive tackle Scott Frantz might just flaunt the most groundbreaking narrative as we look forward to April.

In 2017 -- after a prolonged fear of rejection by family, friends, coaches, and teammates that started back when he was in fifth grade -- Frantz publicly disclosed that he was gay.

Frantz went on to become the first Wildcat freshman since 1988 to start every game at LT and even received All-Bowl honors from the Associated Press after holding future No.1 overall pick Myles Garrett to just one tackle in the Texas Bowl.

Heading into his senior year in 2019, Frantz was projected to be a late-round selection or an undrafted free agent. After another imposing season in the trenches, the 6-foot-5, 303-pound prospect is fully expected to have his name called on Draft Day.

Even if Frantz goes undrafted, he would still have a punchers chance at making an NFL roster, which could see him become the first openly gay player to make a 53-man roster.

Frantz certainly has a pro career in mind as he recently signed with agent Brett Tessler.

Michael Sam was the first openly gay player to enter the league, as he was drafted by the Rams in the seventh round back in 2014, though he never actually appeared in an NFL game.

Frantz is in pole position to follow in Sam's footsteps and perhaps enjoy a more successful stint at the pro level.