Philadelphia, PA – June 6, 2025
The NFL world is reeling after former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Quez Watkins made a deeply personal announcement that has both surprised and inspired fans across the league. In a heartfelt post shared to his 1.1 million followers on X, Watkins publicly came out as part of the LGBTQ+ community — and simultaneously confirmed the end of his three-year relationship with longtime girlfriend Sierra James.
"It’s been a journey of growth, pain, and truth. I’m finally living it all out loud," Watkins wrote. “Sierra has been an incredible part of my life, and I’ll always respect her. But it’s time I live as my full self.”
The revelation comes less than a year after Watkins signed a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins following his departure from Philadelphia. Though no longer wearing midnight green, his legacy with the Eagles — especially during the 2021 and 2022 seasons when he provided key deep-threat speed — still resonates with many fans.
The reaction from both Eagles and Dolphins supporters has been overwhelmingly mixed but passionate. Many praised Watkins’ courage and transparency.
"Proud of Quez for owning his truth," one Eagles fan posted. “That takes more guts than any fourth-quarter catch.” Another added, “This is bigger than football. You’ve got a whole community behind you now.”
Still, some skeptics emerged, questioning the timing of the announcement just as training camps begin heating up. Others speculated about whether it would affect his standing in the Dolphins locker room or future free agency prospects. For now, neither Watkins nor the Dolphins have commented further.
NFL veterans and former teammates quickly voiced support. Former Eagles QB Jalen Hurts reposted Watkins’ announcement with the words: “Always got love for you, bro. Real ones move on truth.”
Watkins’ coming out marks one of the most high-profile personal revelations from a former Eagles player in recent memory, joining a slowly growing list of active and former NFL athletes choosing to speak publicly about their identity.
Whether his next chapter unfolds in Miami or elsewhere, Quez Watkins has made one thing clear — he’s done hiding, and ready to embrace whatever comes next.
