Robert Kraft Congratulates Jason Collins, Says He Would Openly Welcome Gay Player on Patriots

FOXBORO, Mass. — Jason Collins‘ decision to reveal he was gay on Monday captivated the sports world.

As people across the country continue to debate the controversial revelation, Patriots owner Robert Kraft had already thought out the issue and took a moment to congratulate Collins for his courage on Thursday.

“My hearty congratulations to him,” Kraft said, applauding the 14-year NBA veteran.

Kraft was at Gillette Stadium to help introduce another Collins on Thursday, the Patriots’ second-round pick Jamie Collins. But after the formalities were finished, Kraft lent his support to Jason Collins and even mentioned that he would support a gay player on the Patriots.

“We’re about winning, and [if] someone can come in here and help us win,” Kraft said. “I don’t care what ethnic background, what racial background, what gender preference they have, if they can help us win and they’re about team then I’ll be happy to have them here.”

If the Patriots are about one thing above all else it is winning, and clearly the kind-hearted Kraft wouldn’t let any one characteristic get in the way.

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