Michael Sam leaves training camp for personal reasons

MONTREAL (AP) Michael Sam has left the Montreal Alouettes training camp for personal reasons.

The CFL team said the rookie defensive end has been given special permission to return home to Texas. The Alouettes are keeping the ''nature of his decision'' confidential.

His departure comes three weeks after Sam became the first openly gay player to sign in the CFL.

The Alouettes say they are giving him ''all the time and support needed'' and are keeping the door open for him to return when he feels ready.

The Alouettes play their first preseason game Saturday night in Quebec City.