EDTOR’S NOTE: ESPN reporter Josina Anderson offers thoughts on this week’s coverage of Michael Sam. This posted at 5:08 p.m. ET on 08.29.14

I wanted to take this opportunity to say I understand the vast and varying perspectives regarding our Michael Sam report. I’m particularly sensitive to those who feel the content therein worked to perpetuate stereotypes surrounding the LGBT community, or was just overall insensitive. In all humility, I truly understand these viewpoints and have taken time to reflect on how our story had this unintended consequence. To Michael Sam, I truly empathize with and respect your journey thus far on many different levels. Ultimately, I’ve always believed making a professional sports roster should and will come down to production.

In my role as reporter, it’s also important for me to emphasize that I highly value accuracy and in this case gathered facts using well-accepted journalistic standards. I can also appreciate that there are always lessons to be gained in any situation regardless of experience or tenure.

As I move on, I look forward to leading off ESPN’s regular-season NFL coverage next week and I appreciate their continued support.

Respectfully and with well-intentions,

Josina Anderson