Political reporter Pat Warren has more on how this plays into efforts to legalize same-sex marriage in Maryland next year.

Football players are considered role models by some, and advocates for same-sex marriage hope that in the case of one Ravens linebacker, it helps their cause.

Number 51, Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, a 35-year-old father of two, is now taking a stand on YouTube, in support of same-sex marriage.

“I believe we should be doing everything that we can to make Maryland families stronger, which is why I support marriage for gay and lesbian couples who want to make a lifetime committment to each other,” Ayanbadejo said.

“We intend to hold their feet to the fire,” said Robert Broadus of Protect Marriage Maryland.