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Mariota supports players protesting during anthem

Shanna Lockwood / USA TODAY Sports

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota is doing his best to be an ally for his teammates.

Mariota said he supports those of his fellow Titans who have chosen to protest racial inequality and police brutality during the national anthem, since he believes it's a constructive chance to use their platform.

"It’s an opportunity for them to express their right. When you’re able to bring awareness to some social issues, you give people a voice," Mariota said Wednesday, according to ESPN's Cameron Wolfe. "When it comes down to it, we’re at a point in our careers that we have a platform. If we’re able to use that in the right light, I think it can be something that’s very beneficial."

Mariota suggested it's important for players to continue bringing attention to social issues, at least until there are signs that things have improved.

"Until there is actual evidence within the communities of some of these changes, it’s still good to be able to create some awareness to it," Mariota said. "Some of our guys in the locker room have done a great job of finding avenues to give back to our community and give back to people who need that voice. (I'm) very privileged to be a part of this locker room. I think these guys have done a great job of handling everything, and I look forward to seeing some changes in our community."

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