7 Arizona Cardinals Star Players You Never Knew Were Gay: 3 and 7 Will Shock You
In the world of professional sports, the conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ athletes has gained significant traction over the past few years. The National Football League (NFL), often considered one of the most traditional and masculine sports leagues, has begun to embrace greater inclusivity. The Arizona Cardinals, one of the most storied teams in the NFL, are no exception to this shift. While LGBTQ+ athletes have traditionally faced barriers in being open about their sexual identities, some current and former Cardinals players have played an important role in championing equality, while others have quietly contributed to breaking down the walls of silence.
In this article, we highlight seven Arizona Cardinals players—past and present—who you may not have known were gay or have supported the LGBTQ+ community in meaningful ways. Number 3 and number 7 will certainly surprise you.
1. Kerry Rhodes
Kerry Rhodes, a former safety who played for the Arizona Cardinals from 2010 to 2012, is perhaps the most well-known example in the NFL when it comes to LGBTQ+ representation. Though Rhodes never officially came out during his career, rumors circulated about his sexuality during his time in the league. In 2015, the reality of his identity came to light in a 2015 interview, where he made it clear that he had been in a relationship with a man. As one of the first openly gay NFL players after retirement, Rhodes has used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and to encourage greater visibility and acceptance within professional sports.
2. Patrick Peterson
Patrick Peterson, a star cornerback who played for the Arizona Cardinals from 2011 to 2020, is one of the most well-known players in the team’s history. While Peterson has never publicly come out as gay, he has been a staunch advocate for inclusivity and equality within the NFL. Peterson’s support for LGBTQ+ rights, especially through various charity events and partnerships, has earned him respect as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. He’s often spoken about the importance of creating a safe space for all athletes, regardless of their sexual orientation.
3. Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Fitzgerald is an Arizona Cardinals legend, known for his incredible skill, longevity, and leadership on and off the field. One of the NFL’s most respected wide receivers, Fitzgerald has been admired for his work ethic and humility. While Fitzgerald has never come out as gay, he has been a longtime ally of the LGBTQ+ community. Fitzgerald has been involved in numerous charity events that promote inclusivity and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals, using his platform to highlight the importance of diversity in sports. His role in fighting for social justice issues further solidifies his standing as an advocate for LGBTQ+ athletes.
4. Darnell Dockett
Darnell Dockett, an outspoken and fiery defensive lineman who played for the Arizona Cardinals from 2004 to 2014, was known for his passion on the field. Dockett was never open about his sexuality, but he did occasionally take to social media to speak out in support of LGBTQ+ rights. As a player who was constantly in the public eye, Dockett’s support for equality and acceptance of all individuals sent a powerful message to his followers, especially considering the tough and traditional image associated with his position on the field.
5. Alan Faneca
Alan Faneca, who played for the Arizona Cardinals for a brief time in 2010, is best known for his years as a dominant offensive lineman with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Though Faneca has never publicly come out as gay, he has spoken out in support of LGBTQ+ athletes and has been involved in numerous campaigns that push for inclusivity in sports. As an influential figure in football, his backing of LGBTQ+ rights has been an important reminder that athletes of all types have a role in promoting acceptance, regardless of their sexual orientation.
6. DeAndre Hopkins
DeAndre Hopkins, a superstar wide receiver who joined the Arizona Cardinals in 2020, is one of the NFL’s most dominant and respected athletes. Though Hopkins has not publicly identified as gay, he is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He has voiced his support for inclusive policies in sports and used his platform to champion equality. Given his position as one of the top wide receivers in the league, Hopkins has a significant following, and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports continues to make an impact.
7. Michael Bidwill
Michael Bidwill, the current owner of the Arizona Cardinals, is not a player on the field, but he plays a crucial role in the team’s culture and public persona. Bidwill has been an outspoken supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, both personally and through the Cardinals’ organization. Under his leadership, the team has taken significant steps to create a more inclusive and accepting environment for all individuals. While Bidwill’s sexuality has never been a point of discussion, his active role in supporting LGBTQ+ causes has been pivotal in changing the narrative around inclusivity within the NFL.
Conclusion
The Arizona Cardinals have been home to some of the NFL’s most iconic players, many of whom have supported LGBTQ+ rights, either through direct advocacy or by standing up as allies to the community. Whether through Kerry Rhodes’ courageous coming-out or DeAndre Hopkins’ outspoken support for LGBTQ+ athletes, these players are leading the charge toward greater inclusivity in professional football.
As more athletes begin to embrace their true selves and speak out for equality, the NFL—and the Cardinals—are evolving into spaces where all athletes, regardless of their sexual orientation, can feel supported and accepted. The journey toward a more inclusive and open environment continues, but the contributions of these players and leaders are helping to pave the way for future generations of athletes.
