**Ravens Release Justin Tucker Amid Allegations and Performance Decline**
The Baltimore Ravens have made the significant decision to release kicker Justin Tucker following allegations of inappropriate behavior from 16 massage therapists across various Baltimore wellness centers. These accusations stem from incidents reported to have occurred between 2012 and 2016. Despite Tucker’s impressive career as a five-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler, the team characterized the roster change as a “football decision,” particularly after Tucker experienced his least successful season in 2024, achieving a field-goal percentage of just 73.3%.
In the past season, Tucker converted 22 of 30 field-goal attempts, struggling notably with longer kicks, missing three out of eight attempts from 40-49 yards and six out of eleven from 50 yards and beyond. He also failed to convert two of his 62 extra point attempts. Nevertheless, Tucker holds the record for the highest career field-goal percentage at 89.1%. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “You’re talking about arguably the best kicker in the history of the game. It’s multilayered and complicated.”
Harbaugh emphasized the necessity of preparing the team for the upcoming season, stating, “We have to get our football team ready, and we’ve got to have a kicker to go. That was the move that we decided to make.” He reiterated the focus on ensuring the team has a reliable kicker as they move forward.
The allegations against Tucker were first reported by The Baltimore Banner, with victims claiming he repeatedly exposed himself over a four-year period, including during his rookie season when the Ravens secured a Super Bowl victory. In response to the allegations, Tucker has firmly denied any wrongdoing, labeling the claims as “unequivocally false.” He expressed his commitment to professionalism throughout his career and stated that he has never faced complaints from massage therapists or been dismissed from any sessions.
As the Ravens navigate this challenging situation, they are now focused on preparing their kicking unit for the upcoming season, with a competition underway to find Tucker’s replacement.
**FAQ**
**What led to Justin Tucker’s release from the Ravens?**
Justin Tucker was released following allegations of inappropriate behavior from multiple massage therapists, combined with a decline in his performance during the 2024 season.
