In a stunning turn of events, the Baltimore Ravens find themselves grappling with an unfamiliar challenge – the struggles of their normally unflappable kicker, Justin Tucker. The seven-time Pro Bowler, known for his incredible accuracy and clutch performances, experienced the worst game of his illustrious 13-year career in a 24-19 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.
Uncharacteristic Misses Prove Costly
Tucker, who entered the season as the most accurate kicker in NFL history, missed two field goals and an extra point attempt against the Eagles. These uncharacteristic misses ultimately proved to be the difference in a tightly contested game.
The normally reliable Tucker’s first miss came on an extra point attempt in the first quarter, as his kick bounced off the left upright. Later, with the Ravens trailing 14-12 in the third quarter, Tucker had two opportunities to give his team the lead. However, he pushed a 47-yard attempt wide left and then sent a 53-yard try wide right.
I feel like I cost us this one, but it doesn’t really do anybody any good to dwell on it. The only thing that we can do — that I can do — is just continue to work, move forward, take it one kick at a time.
– Justin Tucker, Ravens kicker
Team Stands Behind Their Kicker
Despite Tucker’s uncharacteristic performance, the Ravens organization remains steadfast in their support of the veteran kicker. Head coach John Harbaugh, when asked if the team would consider making a change at the position, quickly dismissed the notion.
If you’re asking me, ‘Are we going to move on from Justin Tucker?’ I’m not really planning on doing that right now. I don’t think that’d be wise.
– John Harbaugh, Ravens head coach
Quarterback Lamar Jackson also voiced his unwavering confidence in Tucker, emphasizing the kicker’s status as the greatest of all time.
Hell yes [I have confidence in Tucker]. He’s the GOAT still. Let’s get back to who he is, that’s all. Whatever is going on, just block it out.
– Lamar Jackson, Ravens quarterback
Tucker’s Legacy and Road to Redemption
Tucker, who has been a pillar of consistency for the Ravens since being signed as an undrafted free agent in 2012, is the only remaining member of the team’s last Super Bowl-winning squad. Prior to this season, he boasted an NFL-best 90.2% field goal conversion rate, having connected on 395 of his 438 attempts.
The 35-year-old kicker’s track record of reliability and clutch performances is why his current struggles have been so surprising. Through 13 weeks of the 2024 season, Tucker ranks 33rd in the league with a 70.4% conversion rate, having made just 19 of his 27 field goal attempts.
We’re going to turn over every stone. I will do that, individually, for sure, just to address any and all issues I may have with my technique, anything tangible, anything concrete that I can make it a point to remedy.
– Justin Tucker
As the Ravens enter their bye week, Tucker plans to use the time to identify and address any technical issues that may be contributing to his uncharacteristic misses. The team remains confident that their star kicker will be able to bounce back and regain his legendary form, just as he did following a subpar 2015 season when he missed seven field goals.
The Road Ahead
With the Ravens currently sitting at 8-5 and in the thick of the AFC playoff race, the team will need Tucker to rediscover his accuracy and reliability if they hope to make a deep postseason run. As one of the most respected and decorated kickers in NFL history, Tucker undoubtedly has the mental fortitude and skill to overcome this challenging stretch.
As the Ravens prepare for the final stretch of the regular season, all eyes will be on Justin Tucker as he works to silence his doubters and prove that even the greatest can overcome adversity. With the unwavering support of his teammates and coaching staff, there is little doubt that Tucker will emerge from this slump stronger than ever, ready to deliver when his team needs him most.
