INDIANAPOLIS — The Baltimore Ravens are currently grappling with serious allegations of inappropriate behavior made against their kicker, Justin Tucker. These accusations have raised concerns within the team’s management, with general manager Eric DeCosta addressing the issue during the NFL’s annual scouting combine in Indianapolis. DeCosta emphasized that while the allegations are indeed troubling, the Ravens will await the results of the NFL’s investigation before making any decision on Tucker’s future with the team.
“There is gravity to the allegations being made,” DeCosta noted. “It’s fortunate that the league has initiated an investigation. We’re prepared to wait patiently for as much information as possible before deciding based on the findings.”
A report claims that 16 massage therapists from various Baltimore locations have accused Tucker of misconduct. The NFL has reportedly already interviewed a few of the alleged victims. DeCosta himself has engaged with the league’s investigative team, trying to glean further insight. Meanwhile, Tucker has publicly refuted the claims, issuing a statement describing the allegations as “entirely false.”
DeCosta learned of these allegations just before a local media outlet planned to release a story on the issue. He had a subsequent conversation with Tucker but remained tight-lipped about the specifics of their discussion. While the Ravens have previously discussed their zero-tolerance stance towards personal misconduct, DeCosta refrained from disclosing how this policy might relate to the current scenario.
Coach John Harbaugh reinforced the need for clarity before any action is taken against Tucker. “It’s all about the investigation and gaining a factual understanding,” Harbaugh said. “You can’t take any action without the full context of the situation. Once we understand the facts, we can proceed accordingly. It’s about defining principles clearly, which we may choose to do officially at some point.”
Until the investigation concludes, the Ravens remain in a waiting phase. Interestingly, Tucker’s career has been marked by remarkable consistency. In 13 seasons with the Ravens, he has accumulated 1,775 points, placing him 16th on the NFL’s all-time list. His field goal accuracy of 89.1% is unparalleled in league history, and he is well-remembered for a record-setting 66-yard field goal against Detroit in 2021.
Despite these accomplishments, the Ravens are contemplating a contingency plan irrespective of Tucker’s legal situation. DeCosta confirmed that the team’s special teams coaches would scout for potential kickers during the upcoming pre-draft events. Harbaugh affirmed this strategy, emphasizing the need for foresight. “While Justin has always been our priority—he’s a phenomenal kicker—no player’s career is indefinite,” Harbaugh observed. “We examine every position as part of our regular process.”
