Justin Tucker, the Baltimore Ravens’ legendary kicker and widely regarded as the most accurate in NFL history, is facing a significant career challenge. After 13 seasons with the Ravens, Tucker was released in May 2025. While the team framed the decision as a football-related choice, off-field controversy has brought intense attention to the former kicker.
Background on Tucker’s Release
Tucker’s release followed a disappointing 2024 season, where he posted a career-low 73.3% on field goals. Shortly before his departure, the Ravens drafted Arizona kicker Tyler Loop, effectively signaling the end of Tucker’s tenure. Though the team insists the move was strictly about performance, the timing coincided with mounting sexual misconduct allegations, putting the spotlight on the NFL’s investigation.
Sexual Misconduct Allegations
The allegations first surfaced in January 2025 through a report by The Baltimore Banner, citing six massage therapists accusing Tucker of inappropriate sexual behavior early in his career. In the weeks that followed, additional claims brought the total to 16 therapists from eight different Baltimore-area establishments. Tucker is accused of exposing himself and engaging in unwanted sexual contact.
Tucker and his legal team have consistently denied all allegations. Spa owners involved in the investigation have also stated that no formal complaints were ever filed against Tucker.
NFL Suspension Details
Following the investigation, the NFL suspended Tucker for the first 10 games of the 2025 season. The suspension applies regardless of whether Tucker is currently signed to a team. After the 10-week period, he will be eligible for reinstatement and can immediately sign with any team that offers him a contract.
Tucker’s Career Outlook
Despite the controversy, Tucker has not announced retirement and continues to maintain his innocence. At age 35 and coming off his lowest-performing season, the kicker faces challenges re-entering the league. Teams may be cautious given the public scrutiny and the availability of other high-level kickers, even though Tucker’s past performance makes him a potentially valuable acquisition.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
The NFL and Ravens community are closely monitoring the situation, and fans are eager to see whether Tucker will make a return. His eligibility for reinstatement begins November 11, 2025, offering a potential opportunity to resume his NFL career.
