Key Takeaways:
- Ryan Russell became the first active NFL player to come out as bisexual, supported by his partner Corey O’Brien.
- Their love story began on a dating app and flourished despite societal pressures and media attention.
- Together, they’ve become advocates for LGBTQ+ visibility and mental health in sports and beyond.
In May 2019, former Dallas Cowboys defensive end Ryan Russell took a life-altering step—not on the field, but in his personal journey. That month, Russell matched with dancer Corey O’Brien on a dating app. A few months later, he would come out publicly as bisexual, becoming the first NFL player to do so while actively pursuing a career in the league.
The couple’s early conversations covered everything from sobriety to coming out, setting the stage for a deep, meaningful connection. Their first meeting at an L.A. café turned into something more permanent, with the two rarely spending days apart since.
Coming Out and Holding Hands in the Spotlight
In August 2019, Russell made headlines when he came out in an essay for ESPN.com, writing, “Until recently, I didn’t love myself enough to live openly and honestly.” Just weeks later, a paparazzi photo of Russell and O’Brien holding hands surfaced—an image that went viral again in 2025. Instead of hiding, Russell embraced it, reflecting a profound change in self-acceptance.
The former NFL player shared in his memoir, The Yards Between Us, that he once would’ve let go of his partner’s hand in fear. Now, he stood firm in love and truth, with O’Brien offering steadfast support as Russell transitioned into a new chapter as an author, activist, and poet.
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More Than a Relationship: A Shared Mission
Russell and O’Brien’s partnership isn’t just romantic—it’s rooted in shared values. O’Brien, who celebrated 11 years of sobriety in 2023, said Russell chose to stop drinking just months into their relationship in a show of solidarity. Their support for one another mirrors the teamwork and discipline Russell once brought to football.
Their public relationship continues to inspire conversations around queer identity in sports—a world often dominated by hypermasculinity and silence around LGBTQ+ issues.
Conclusion: A Love That Defies Norms and Redefines Representation
Ryan Russell’s journey from closeted NFL player to openly bisexual activist, with Corey O’Brien at his side, represents more than personal growth—it’s a symbol of courage, change, and visibility in professional sports.
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