Ravens hand key job to rookie draft pick after reaching inevitable Justin Tucker decision following 2025 NFL Draft

There is an ongoing NFL investigation into misconduct allegations against Tucker. 

Justin Tucker has been accused of inappropriate behavior by 16 massage therapists from eight different Baltimore spas and wellness centers. All of the alleged incidents occurred during sessions between 2012 and 2016, covering Tucker’s first five seasons in the NFL. Tucker has publicly disputed the allegations twice, including a statement he posted on social media in January calling the accusations “unequivocally false.” The NFL has been investigating the matter. -- Adam Schefter

The Ravens drafted Tucker's replacement already

Baltimore knew this was coming, clearly. The Ravens drafted kicker Tyler Loop in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. 

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh discussed the kicker battle with the media on Sunday. His comments make plenty of sense once you consider this news of Tucker's release and Loop's massive opportunity. 

"Every decision we make has to be based on football. There's a lot of layers to that. You've got a rookie kicker in here. We took him in the sixth round, early in the sixth round. He's a talented guy. Just from a football standpoint, salary cap, all the different things that you just take into consideration -- whatever we decide to do over the next few weeks would be based on football." -- John Harbaugh

Tucker's play began to hit a decline this past season, and he also carried a cap hit north of $7 million over the next two seasons. This move was necessary in every facet. 

Baltimore's statement on the release

The Ravens released an official statement regarding the decision on Tucker as well. 

Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances.

Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker.

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.

We are grateful for Justin's many contributions while playing for the Ravens. We sincerely wish him and his family the very best in this next chapter of their lives.

-- Ravens GM Eric DeCosta

This decision by Baltimore puts an end to an impressive career for Tucker with the team, but the shadow cast over his off-the-field decisions is one that will linger.