Justin Tucker Faces 10-Game Suspension Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Justin Tucker, the former kicker for the Baltimore Ravens, has been handed a 10-game suspension by the NFL, effective from roster cutdown day on August 26. This decision follows an extensive investigation into over a dozen allegations of sexual misconduct, as confirmed by the league on Thursday.

The suspension will remain in effect regardless of Tucker's roster status, with eligibility for reinstatement set for November 11. Despite this suspension, Tucker may still participate in tryouts and sign with a team during this period. If he secures a contract, he can practice and compete in preseason games.

Having spent 13 seasons with the Ravens before his release on May 5, Tucker's career has been marred by these serious allegations. Reports indicate that he faced accusations from at least 16 massage therapists between 2012 and 2016, prompting the NFL's investigation.

Rob Roche, Tucker's agent, expressed disappointment regarding the NFL's ruling. "Justin has always strived to carry himself in a way that would make his family and community proud," Roche stated. He emphasized that Tucker stands by his previous assertions and is eager to resolve this matter to return to the field.

In response to the allegations, Tucker and his legal team have consistently denied any wrongdoing. "The people who know Justin best know his character," Roche added, highlighting Tucker's commitment to his roles as a father and husband alongside his football career.

Following the initial report of the allegations, Tucker took to social media to assert that he never acted inappropriately during massage therapy sessions. "I have always made a conscious effort to be considerate and respectful in all of the interactions with the community that I love so much," he wrote, expressing devastation over the claims.

The Ravens released Tucker after drafting kicker Tyler Loop from the University of Arizona in the sixth round. General Manager Eric DeCosta described the decision as a "football decision," acknowledging the difficulty of such choices. "Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances," he remarked.

In February, DeCosta referred to the allegations as "serious" and "concerning," indicating a desire to await the findings of the NFL's investigation before making any final decisions regarding Tucker's future with the team.

Tucker joined the Ravens in 2012, coinciding with Baltimore's Super Bowl XLVII victory. Over his career, he established himself as one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history, boasting an overall field goal percentage of 89.1%. Despite a challenging 2024 season where he recorded a career-low 73.3% field goal percentage, hitting 22 of 30 attempts, he remains a seven-time Pro Bowl player and holds the record for the longest field goal at 66 yards.

DeCosta reflected on Tucker's impact on the franchise: "Justin created many significant and unforgettable moments in Ravens history. His reliability, focus, drive, resilience, and extraordinary talent made him one of the league's best kickers for over a decade."