Michael Sam -- I'm Playing Pro Football Again ... In Canada

Michael Sam can once again say he is a professional football player, just not in the NFL ... instead he'll be balling in the Canadian Football League.

Sam signed a two-year deal with the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, after getting cut by the St. Louis Rams and the Dallas Cowboys.

Alouettes GM Jim Popp says, "With the signing of Michael Sam, we have become a better organization today. Not only have we added an outstanding football player, we have added even a better person that brings dignity, character, and heart to our team."

Sam says ... "I cannot wait to put on the pads, get back on the field and work hard each and every day with my teammates to bring a Grey Cup to the great fans here in Montreal."

Michael has told us he thinks the fact he's openly gay prevented him from getting a fair shake on an NFL roster.