Baltimore, Md. — The Ravens have officially parted ways with kicker Justin Tucker, a decision announced Monday by General Manager Eric DeCosta. This announcement follows recent comments from head coach John Harbaugh, who noted that an NFL investigation concerning misconduct allegations surrounding Tucker is still ongoing. Harbaugh indicated that any team decisions regarding Tucker would primarily be based on football factors, including the recent drafting of kicker Tyler Loop in the sixth round.
DeCosta characterized the decision as a difficult one, acknowledging the unique challenges that come with roster management. “Sometimes, football decisions can be incredibly tough, and this is certainly one of those cases,” he stated. “Given the current state of our roster, we’ve made the hard choice to release Justin Tucker. Throughout his time with the Ravens, Justin has delivered a host of significant and unforgettable moments, proving himself as one of the league’s premier kickers.”
During his tenure with the Ravens, which began in 2012, Tucker earned first-team All-Pro honors six times and holds the distinction of the highest field goal percentage in NFL history. However, his performance during the 2024 season was less impressive, and the combination of his declining play and the ongoing investigation contributed to the team’s decision to move on.
Tucker’s contributions to the Ravens extend beyond statistics. His unwavering reliability and exceptional skill have made him a fan favorite, and his absence will be keenly felt within the organization. DeCosta expressed gratitude for the impact Tucker made throughout his career in Baltimore, adding, “We wish him and his family nothing but success in this next chapter.”
As the Ravens look to the future, they are tasked with filling the void left by Tucker, a player who consistently produced in crucial moments. The team’s decision highlights the complexities that often accompany roster changes, particularly when player conduct and performance intersect.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring how Baltimore navigates this transition, and whether the addition of Loop can provide the same level of performance that Tucker established. As the new season approaches, the focus will shift to how the Ravens will adapt and thrive in a league known for its unpredictability.