Justin Tucker's potential NFL return: Ravens' ‘football decision' sparks bigger debate
The Baltimore Ravens shocked the NFL world earlier this offseason when they cut ties with longtime kicker Justin Tucker, a franchise legend whose resume includes a Super Bowl ring, seven Pro Bowl nods, and the highest field goal conversion rate in NFL history.
But the controversy surrounding his departure wasn't just about on-field production—it was about timing, messaging, and the league's tolerance for off-field allegations.
Baltimore's all-time kicker still wants to play, but is the NFL ready for his comeback?
Despite Tucker's unprecedented accuracy—417 of 468 career field goals at 89.1 percent—the Ravens released him following serious accusations from over 16 massage therapists in the Baltimore area. Though Tucker has denied all allegations, he agreed to serve a 10-game suspension issued by the NFL, sidelining him until at least Week 11 of the 2025 season.
Still, some insiders believe Tucker isn't done just yet. "By maintaining that cutting Tucker was a football decision, the Ravens kept the door open for a reunion," wrote Ravens insider Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic. "Still, they'd have to be in a pretty tough spot to make that call. I might be in the minority here, but I believe Tucker will kick again in the NFL. All indications are that he wants to."
The Ravens' future rests with rookie Tyler Loop—for now
Baltimore attempted to turn the page by drafting rookie Tyler Loop in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The move, while strategic, now looks risky given the magnitude of who Tucker was to the franchise. If Loop falters, expect the fanbase and media alike to revisit DeCosta's controversial explanation.
"Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances," DeCosta said. "Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker."
Many fans remain unconvinced that this was solely a 'football decision.'
The optics surrounding the release—coinciding with misconduct allegations—have left room for skepticism. Bringing Tucker back would only intensify that scrutiny.
NFL teams watching closely as suspension countdown begins
Tucker will be eligible to return to the league on November 11, just ahead of Week 11. With kicking struggles a constant around the NFL, the door remains open for a team desperate for consistency. If the Ravens don't act, someone else might.
One thing is clear: Tucker still wants to kick. Whether any team wants to take the public relations hit to sign him remains to be seen. But in the NFL, talent often gets a second chance—especially when it's historically great.
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