Baltimore Ravens anthem singer Joey Odoms has decided to resign from his role with the team in wake of the reaction from NFL fans following league-wide protests this weekend.
Odoms released a statement via social media explaining his decision, though it is unclear whether he is in support of the protests or against them.
Dear Ravens Flock
I am resigning as Official National Anthem Singer of the Baltimore Ravens. The people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting at the Ravens organization have been nothing but nice to me, however the tone/actions of a large number of NFL fans in the midst of our country’s cultural crisis, have convinced me that I do not belong there. Someone once told me to always “go where you’re welcomed”. This is not an emotional reaction to recent events, rather an ethical decision that part of me regrets but my core knows is the right choice.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to grow as a performer and for allowing me to live out my dream of sharing my gift with you.
-Joey Odoms
Odoms, a member of the Maryland Army National Guard and a Baltimore native, did not sing the anthem this weekend as the Ravens played in London.
While he did not specify what the "tone/actions of a large number of NFL fans" are, some Ravens fans have petitioned to remove a statue of Ray Lewis after the legendary linebacker kneeled during the anthem.
