The Yards Between Us

“This is a touching and beautiful book that’s about so much more than football- it’s a lifeline. From his vivid telling of growing up in Texas with a single mother, to his groundbreaking experience coming out as an NFL player, this story introduces a brilliant and inspiring new voice.”
–Gabrielle Union, actress, producer, advocate and New York Times bestselling author
“An intimate journey with a trailblazing queer athlete, The Yards Between Us goes far beyond the gridiron in its exploration of everything from the euphoria of a first fling to the complexities of coming out in the public eye. A tender, discerning book from a force to be reckoned with in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, both on and off the field.”– –Eric Cervini, Historian of LGBTQ+ politics and culture, New York Times best-selling author, Puli
“The power of sport, much like storytelling, is its ability to bring people of different backgrounds and cultures together for a common goal, to be unique yet unified, and to find the strength in that sense of community. Russell’s book shows us how to find that strength in our lives and ourselves.”–Spencer Paysinger, Writer/Producer of All American, Former NFL athlete and Super Bowl XLVI Champion
”[R.K.] Russell is a force to be reckoned with, a man of many talents–on the page and on the field–and it’s a thrill to see him tell his powerful story of acceptance and discovery. We can only hope his work will light the way for others to do the same.“–Jason Collins, NBA legend and LGTBQ advocate
”[R.K.] Russell’s story is more than just historic. It’s an expression of sports’ very mission – overcoming adversity and applying years of preparation to thrive in a pursuit you love. LGBT people will celebrate his journey, but so will anyone who appreciates how we find ourselves in life and build an identity. Having had the good fortune to listen to Russ recount his personal quest, I’ve been overcome by the thoughtfulness of his reflections.“–Kevin Arnovitz, ESPN writer and LGTBQ advocate

R. K. Russell was a professional football player in the NFL, and is a social justice advocate, essayist, and artist. In August 2019, Russell made history by becoming the first out active NFL player to identify as bisexual. Since coming out, he has written about his experience as a Black queer man in sports for The New York Times, The L.A. Times, and Out Magazine, among others. Russell has also spearheaded NFL Pride initiatives such as the NFL Super Bowl LVI Pride panel and the NFL’s National Coming Out Day PSA. He has been honored by GAY TIMES (U.K.) as Sportsperson of the Year, and he was selected to the prestigious OUT 100 List in 2019. He lives in Los Angeles.

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