OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens announced Monday they are parting ways with veteran kicker Justin Tucker, following months of controversy surrounding allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct made by several massage therapists.
According to The Baltimore Banner, more than a dozen therapists have come forward with accusations against Tucker. While the NFL has launched an investigation into the matter, the Ravens had already moved to draft rookie kicker Tyler Loop in the sixth round last month. Head coach John Harbaugh indicated Sunday that the team might make a decision on Tucker before the league’s probe concludes.
“Every roster move we make ultimately comes down to football,” Harbaugh said. “We have a promising young kicker now. He was a priority in the draft. When you factor in things like the salary cap and roster depth, the decision—whatever it ends up being—is rooted in football.”
Tucker has denied any wrongdoing, insisting his conduct during massage therapy sessions was appropriate.
In a statement, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta called the move “incredibly difficult,” citing the team’s current roster dynamics as a key factor in the decision.
Tucker, 35, is a five-time All-Pro and widely regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history. He owns the record for the longest successful field goal at 66 yards and boasts a career field goal percentage of 89.1%, the best ever among kickers with at least 100 attempts. He spent all 13 of his seasons with Baltimore. Still, last season was a down year, as he missed a career-high eight field goals, though his performance improved later in the season.
The January article from The Banner cast a shadow over his future with the franchise.
“Justin gave us countless iconic moments,” DeCosta said. “His precision, poise, and skill defined an era of Ravens football. We thank him for everything and wish him and his family the best moving forward.
