Bill Belichick discussed Michael Sam for perhaps last time until the New England Patriots either draft or play against the openly gay defensive end.

Belichick told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network that Sam is on the Patriots’ radar.

“We evaluate all the players, including Michael Sam, based on who they are and who can best contribute to our team,” Belichick said. “They all have strengths, they all have weaknesses. No two are identical. Our scouting staff has performed extensive work on him.”

Patriots owner Robert Kraft said he would welcome drafting Sam, who announced he is gay on Sunday night, if the Missouri product can help the team win. Sam recorded 11.5 sacks in his senior season at Missouri, where he was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. He is expected to be a Day 3 pick in May’s NFL draft.

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