OWN calls off Michael Sam series

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The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and Michael Sam's representation announced Friday evening that it was postponing its documentary series with the openly gay football player.

'After careful consideration and discussion with the St. Louis Rams. 'The Untitled Michael Sam Project' has been postponed, allowing Michael the best opportunity to achieve his dreams of making the team,' said OWN president Erik Logan, in a statement. 'OWN is about elevating and empowering people to achieve their best. It's clear that we, along with the world, recognize the opportunity that Michael has in this moment. We will continue to support him in his journey to earn a spot playing for the Rams.'

The statement also included a comment from Sam's agent Cameron Weiss, who met with the Rams in person on Friday.

'After today's meeting with the Rams, we felt it is best to postpone the project,' Weiss said. 'This will allow for Michael to have total focus on football, and will ensure no distractions to his teammates. Everybody involved remains committed to project and understands its historical importance as well as its positive message.'

OWN announced on Wednesday that it acquired the rights to follow Sam, the first openly gay player to be drafted by an NFL team. But the Rams, who picked him in the seventh round, and the NFL said that they were unaware of the project prior to its announcement.

'We learned of this in the days after the Draft,' NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said. McCarthy said OWN had also not signed any agreement that would allow the network to use league footage or any of its trademarks.

Sources told ESPN.com that the plan was to follow Sam's personal life as he tried to make the Rams, dividing the content into six to eight segments.

The Rams have yet to sign Sam to a contract.