Colts COO: Anthem protests a factor in poor season-ticket sales

Indianapolis Colts chief operating officer Pete Ward blamed the team's poor season-ticket renewal numbers Thursday on the player protests that took place during the national anthem throughout last season.

"I'm unable to quantify a number, but it is a factor - to some extent - in our renewals," he told Scott Olson of the Indianapolis Business Journal.

The Colts have seen 82 percent of season tickets renewed for the upcoming season, down from the renewal rate of 87 percent the club had at the same point a year ago. Ward acknowledged the Colts' 4-12 record last year has also been a factor in the sagging numbers. The uncertainty surrounding quarterback Andrew Luck's health is likely another part of the equation.

Still, though, Ward said a number of fans have told team officials they're giving up their season tickets because of the anthem demonstrations.

On the flip side, Ward noted the club has experienced a significant increase in the number of new season-ticket holders for the 2018 season.