Ravens Exec: Yes, the Anthem Protests Hurt Attendance

Baltimore Ravens president Dick Cass contradicted the league’s position on the issue, saying the demonstrations contributed to more no-shows at games.

Baltimore Ravens president Dick Cass sent a letter to fans and sponsors this week attributing the team’s attendance woes to players’ national anthem protests, contradicting the National Football League’s stance that the demonstrations have not hurt attendance.

In his letter to season-ticket holders, sponsors and suite holders, Cass blamed the protests for the number of no-shows at Ravens games, which he said “are higher, and it is noticeable.”

The protests “became an emotional and divisive issue. We know that hurt some of you,” Cass wrote. “There are a number of reasons for the no-shows, but surely the one-time protest in London has been a factor.”

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