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Ravens have had direct talks with Kaepernick

Biscotti: 'I hope we do what's best for the team'
Posted at 4:44 PM, Jul 31, 2017
and last updated 2017-07-31 16:45:10-04

Since rumors of Colin Kaepernick joining the Ravens started last week, fans have been vocal about adding the quarterback to the roster. 

He became a controversial quarterback last season after silently protesting before games, refusing to stand for the national anthem.

During Sunday's open practice at M&T Bank Stadium, a fan asked owner Steve Biscotti if signing Kaepernick would hurt the team's brand. 

"Quantify hurting the brand," Biscotti asked the fan. "I know that we're going to upset some people, and I know that we're going to make people happy that we stood up for somebody that has the right to do what he did. Non-violent protesting is something that we have all embraced."

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The Ravens are doing extensive research on Kaepernick. They've talked to the quarterback and his desire to play as well as weighing in the opinions of starting quarterback Joe Flacco, wide receiver Benjamin Watson and former Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis.

Biscotti said talks with Kaepernick all started with football. The team is currently monitoring backup quarterback Ryan Mallett. Much of the decision focuses around Flacco's back injury and its severity. If his injury lingers, the team could be forced to pull a bigger move.

The Ravens say they have gauged public opinion of Kaepernick and found a split response. 

"I hope we do what is best for the team and balance that with what's best for the fans," Biscotti said. "Your opinions matter to us, and we couldn't get a consensus on it in [this room] either."

At the end of the day, the Ravens want to win games and they'll be looking to sign a quarterback they think can win games.