The Minnesota Vikings and Chris Kluwe have reached a settlement that will prevent the former punter from suing the team over his release.
Terms of the resolution were not disclosed.
Kluwe had accused the Vikings of cutting him in May of 2013 because of his vocal support of marriage equality and gay rights.
"As a family we have long-supported equal rights causes, including marriage equality," said Vikings owner/president Mark Wilf in a statement Tuesday. "We are glad a resolution of this matter has been reached, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to create positive awareness of these issues."
The Vikings, as part of the settlement, have agreed to provide continued financial support for human rights and anti-hate causes. The team will also continue to enhance its sensitivity training policy and will help raise awareness in professional sports about LGBT issues.
"I'm pleased that the issue has been resolved," Kluwe said in a statement. "I intend to continue to speak out on behalf of marriage equality, and I am pleased to be a part of the impact the Vikings material charitable contributions will have on LGBT and related causes."
Kluwe claimed in a January article published by Deadspin that special teams coordinator Mike Priefer made an anti-gay comment in a team setting. The Vikings suspended Priefer for three games in July after the team completed an investigation.
"We appreciate Chris Kluwe's contributions to the Minnesota Vikings as a player and a member of this organization during his eight seasons in which he established many team records as our punter, and we wish him and his family the best in the future," Vikings owner/chairman Zygi Wilf said in a statement. "In regards to this matter, our focus remains on maintaining a culture of tolerance, inclusion and respect, and creating the best workplace environment for our players, coaches and staff."
Kluwe averaged 44.4 yards per punt over his eight seasons with the Vikings. He was released by the Oakland Raiders prior to last season and has not played since.
[SportsNetwork.com]
