Despite having a realistic shot at securing a playoff spot, the Baltimore Ravens have seen an alarming increase of "no-shows" in recent weeks, leading team president Dick Cass to issue a letter to season-ticket holders, suite holders, and sponsors.
"The numbers (of no-shows) are higher, and it is noticeable," Cass wrote in a 656-word letter sent out this week, according to ESPN's Jamison Hensley. "There are a number of reasons for the no-shows, but surely the one-time protest in London has been a factor."
Stemming from comments made by President Donald Trump during a speech in Alabama, where he pleaded for owners to release players who kneel during the anthem, approximately 27 Ravens players - including former team captain and middle linebacker Ray Lewis - protested the national anthem prior to a Week 3 game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Several teams and players followed suit.
The following week in Baltimore, Ravens players knelt and prayed but stood for the anthem, and have since ended their protests. Cass has reached out to several fans who have voiced their displeasure.
"We have responded to your concerns about the protest by re-doubling the efforts of both the organization and our players to make the Baltimore area a better community," Cass wrote in the letter.
"We want the Ravens to continue to be a strong, unifying force and source of pride in our community. When the Ravens win, we can bring families and the community together. We've done that before, and we can do it again."
The Ravens play the Indianapolis Colts at home on Sunday, and will conclude the 2017 season at M&T Bank Stadium against the Cincinnati Bengals.
