Miami Dolphins defensive end Cameron Wake knows how difficult it can be to crack the NFL.
The former Penn State defensive end completed his collegiate career without being drafted. Just like many players before him, who showed no interest in ceasing their football careers, Wake had to look elsewhere for a football gig.
The Beltsville, Md., native signed as a free agent import with the BC Lions in 2007, and made the absolute most of it. The then 25-year-old caused seismic waves through the league, becoming the first player to win both the Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards in the same season.
Wake's successful CFL stint garnered league-wide NFL interest, with him eventually signing with the Fins in 2009.
The defensive end has become a four-time pro bowler, and acknowledges his CFL experience for launching his professional career, something Michael Sam is hoping to mimic.
"I think it's a good move for anybody if you get an opportunity. I loved it in my time there,' Wake told ESPN's James Walker.
Sam could take inspiration from Wake's case and hope his situation ends in a similar light. The former SEC Defensive Player of the Year signed with the Montreal Alouettes early this summer, but has been battling ongoing personal dilemmas that have kept him off the field. He left the team last week, but since returned, and is expected to stick around, at least for now.
Wake continued to explain the fundamental strengths that can be developed in the CFL, which can then be applied to the NFL:
There are so many things in football that are just football. I don't care if it's CFL, NFL, XFL, Arena (league), whatever. Rushing the passer is rushing the passer. Catching the ball is catching the ball. Tackling is tackling, no matter what the auxiliary rules are. If you can beat somebody and manhandle a guard, you can do that anywhere. So just getting up there and being able to show what you can do and put your resume on field, the rest will take care of itself.
For Sam, this could be the advice to truly provide him with the motivation to stay north of the border and with the Alouettes.
