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Ravens Release Justin Tucker Amidst Sexual Misconduct Allegations
The Baltimore Ravens have released veteran kicker Justin Tucker, a decision that sent shockwaves through the NFL. While the team cited "football reasons," the move comes amid a troubling investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior levied against Tucker by multiple massage therapists.
A Career Defined by Accuracy and Now Controversy
Tucker, a seven-time Pro Bowler and holder of the NFL record for longest field goal, had a subpar 2024 season, missing 10 kicks—his worst performance in 13 years. This decline, coupled with the serious allegations, seemingly contributed to the Ravens' decision. The team drafted kicker Tyler Loop, signaling their intention to move on. General Manager Eric DeCosta emphasized the difficulty of the decision, highlighting Tucker's significant contributions to the Ravens, including being the last remaining player from their 2012 Super Bowl-winning team. However, the statement notably omitted any mention of the ongoing sexual misconduct investigation.
Allegations and the NFL Investigation
The Baltimore Banner reported that over a dozen massage therapists have accused Tucker of inappropriate conduct between 2012 and 2016. Tucker and his legal team have vehemently denied these allegations. The NFL is conducting an investigation, and its findings will likely play a significant role in Tucker's future in the league. The Ravens, while acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations earlier this year, ultimately made their decision based on football considerations, leaving the investigative process to run its course independently.
The Ravens' New Kicker
Tyler Loop, the sixth-round draft pick, is now the sole kicker on the Ravens' roster. While Loop possesses a strong leg and impressive touchback percentage in college, he faces the monumental task of replacing one of the NFL's most accurate and reliable kickers in franchise history. The team may add another kicker during training camp, but for now, the spotlight is squarely on Loop.
What's Next for Tucker?
The release marks a dramatic end to Tucker's illustrious career in Baltimore. The outcome of the NFL investigation will significantly influence his future prospects in the NFL. His legacy, once defined by unmatched precision and unwavering reliability, now carries the weight of serious allegations and unanswered questions.
