The NFL has officially announced the suspension of free agent kicker Justin Tucker for the first 10 weeks of the 2025 regular season due to violations of the league’s personal conduct policy. This decision follows a set of serious allegations from sixteen massage therapists across eight high-end spas in the Baltimore area, claiming sexual misconduct by Tucker from 2012 to 2016.
Tucker, who was released by the Ravens on May 5 as part of a post-June 1 roster move for salary cap relief, has firmly denied all allegations. He has described the reporting by the Baltimore Banner as “desperate tabloid fodder.”
As his suspension period becomes clearer, there remains a possibility for Tucker to return to the field later in the season. However, he faces challenges, having come off the worst year of his career in 2024, where he missed 10 kicks, leading to a conversion rate of 73.3% on field goals, placing him 31st in the league. Despite this downturn, Tucker was once on a Hall of Fame trajectory, boasting seven Pro Bowl selections and a remarkable 90.2% conversion rate in his first 12 seasons. He also holds the NFL record for the longest field goal, a notable 66-yard kick made in 2021.
Tucker had signed a substantial four-year contract extension worth $22 million in August 2022, which at that time made him the highest-paid kicker in the league. Amidst the ongoing situation, the next season will be crucial for his future in the NFL, as he looks to rebuild his reputation and career post-suspension.
This incident underscores the growing scrutiny surrounding player conduct and the importance of accountability in professional sports. As the NFL continues to navigate these issues, the league’s decision-making reflects its commitment to upholding standards of conduct, which will hopefully lead to a more respectful environment for all involved in the sport.