What can the Ravens do about kicker Justin Tucker’s continued struggles?
Tucker, 35, is recognized as the second-most accurate field-goal kicker in NFL history with an impressive 89% success rate. However, this season has seen him drop to the second-least accurate kicker, hitting only 70% of his attempts. This stark contrast raises concerns for the Baltimore Ravens as they fight for a playoff spot.
Currently sitting at 8-5, the Ravens find themselves in a precarious position as the sixth seed in the playoffs. Missed opportunities, particularly in close games, have left head coach John Harbaugh facing tough questions about Tucker, a player who has long been a fan favorite.
“We’re working through it with every player,” Harbaugh stated after the recent loss. “If you’re asking me whether we will move on from Justin Tucker, I don’t plan on doing that. He knows he can make kicks, and his history speaks for itself.”
Despite making the Pro Bowl for the last five years and leading the league in field goals just two seasons ago, Tucker’s performance has declined. He went just 1-for-5 on attempts from 50 yards or longer last season, and this year, he has already matched his career high with eight missed field goals, in addition to two missed extra points.
“I missed the kicks, and I’ll leave it at that,” Tucker admitted. “I feel like I cost us this game, but dwelling on it won’t help. I need to focus on taking it one kick at a time. It’s disappointing, and I know I didn’t perform well enough to help the team win.”
The Ravens must now contemplate their options. After reaching the AFC Championship Game last season, expectations were high for 2024. Tucker’s struggles could hinder their success. They might consider placing him on injured reserve, similar to what the Jets did with Greg Zuerlein, who currently has a lower success rate.
Tucker’s self-criticism is evident, particularly after games that result in narrow losses for the Ravens. “Right after the game, it’s raw for me,” he expressed. “Winning brings joy, but losing, especially when I don’t meet our standards, is crushing. My feelings don’t matter; what matters is getting back to work.”
Tucker’s struggles are not unique among elite kickers nearing the end of their careers. Adam Vinatieri, the NFL’s all-time leader in field goals, had a rough final season, hitting only 68%. Similarly, Jason Elam and Jan Stenerud faced declines in their last years, showing that this trend is not uncommon.
As the Ravens enter their bye week, they will prepare for a relatively easy matchup against the Giants in Week 15. However, two of their last three games are against strong AFC playoff contenders, including the Steelers and Texans, where kicking accuracy could be pivotal. If the playoffs started today, the Ravens would face the Steelers in Pittsburgh, where Tucker previously missed two field goals in a close 18-16 loss.
“He knows the situation,” said Andrews, a teammate. “He just needs to stay true to himself and keep pushing forward. We all have each other’s backs, and we believe in him.”
“He’s going to get it down. Just believe.”
Greg Auman is an NFL Reporter for FOX Sports. He previously spent a decade covering the Buccaneers for the Tampa Bay Times and The Athletic. You can follow him on Twitter at @gregauman.
