Baltimore Ravens Release Legendary Kicker Justin Tucker Amid Allegations and Performance Decline
The Ravens released Justin Tucker, citing football reasons, while the NFL investigates multiple allegations of misconduct against him.
Overview
The Baltimore Ravens announced the release of iconic kicker Justin Tucker after 13 seasons, attributing the decision primarily to football reasons amidst ongoing allegations of sexual misconduct from 16 massage therapists between 2012 and 2016. Despite his legendary status, owning records for accuracy and longest field goals, Tucker's performance had declined notably in 2024, converting only 73.3% of field goals. General Manager Eric DeCosta expressed gratitude for Tucker's contributions, while the Ravens selected rookie kicker Tyler Loop in the draft, signaling a shift at the position. The NFL continues its investigation into the serious allegations against Tucker.
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Daily Caller·2M·FAQ
The Ravens cited roster considerations, salary cap implications, and the selection of rookie kicker Tyler Loop in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft as key football reasons for Tucker's release.
The allegations span Tucker's first five NFL seasons (2012-2016), involving 16 massage therapists from eight Baltimore-area wellness facilities, as reported by The Baltimore Banner.
Loop was drafted in the sixth round (2025), while Tucker entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2012. The Ravens had never previously drafted a kicker before selecting Loop.
Baltimore avoids paying Tucker's $4.2 million 2025 salary, which contained no guaranteed money in the first non-guaranteed year of his contract.
Tucker is regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history, holding the records for longest field goal (66 yards) and career accuracy (89.1%). He spent 13 seasons with Baltimore, earning five All-Pro selections.
History
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