Kevin Maxen, Jaguars assistant strength coach, comes out as first openly gay male coach in NFL

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Jacksonville Jaguars assistant strength and conditioning coach Kevin Maxen came out publicly as gay Thursday, making him the first known openly gay male coach in the NFL and in men’s professional sports in the United States. 

There are reasons Maxen decided to come out publicly now, one of which is being able to lead an open life with his boyfriend, Nick, who he has been dating two years. 

"I don’t want to feel like I have to think about it anymore," Maxen, who joined the Jaguars’ staff last season, explained to Outsports. "I don’t want to feel like I have to lie about who I am seeing or why I am living with someone else. 

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Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Jay Tufele (97) talks with associate strength coach Kevin Maxen during the Jaguars' rookie minicamp at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Fla., June 14, 2022. (Getty Images)

"I want to be vocal in support of people living in how they want to live, but I also just want to live and not feel fear about how people will react."

Maxen added that his support system, which includes family, friends and colleagues, showed support, allowing him to make the decision to come out publicly. 

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"It wasn’t until recently — and with the immense love and support of my family, my friends, colleagues and peers, and the courage and sacrifice from my partner — that I realized I have the right and responsibility to love and be loved, and that maybe sharing this will hopefully give someone else the strength to accept their own life and take control of their own