Baltimore,Sa – May 3, 2025
The Baltimore Ravens sent shockwaves through the NFL, drafting a kicker for the first time in their 30-year history with the No. 186 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Arizona’s standout specialist, selected in the sixth round, could signal the end of an era for Justin Tucker, the league’s most accurate kicker, whose future hangs in the balance, sources say.
This rookie, a record-setter at Arizona with an 83.8% career field-goal rate and a 62-yard long, steps into a high-stakes spotlight. Tucker, a seven-time Pro Bowler, struggled in 2024, hitting a career-worst 73.3% of field goals and missing two extra points. Off the field, he faces an NFL investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior involving 16 massage therapists from 2012-2016, which he has denied. “He knew the situation,” John Harbaugh said of Tucker, per ESPN, noting team officials warned him pre-draft about a potential kicker pick.
The Ravens, 12-5 in 2024, leaned on Tucker’s clutch legacy, but his $4.2 million cap savings if cut post-June 1 looms large. Eric DeCosta praised the rookie’s leg, saying, “He’s got the tools we value,” per NBC Sports. The team’s minicamp this weekend will showcase the rookie’s skills, guiding DeCosta’s next steps, sources say.
Analysts see the pick as a clear pivot. “It’s a loud statement,” Adam Schefter told Awful Announcing, noting teams rarely draft kickers without intent to start them. The Ravens’ special teams, led by Chris Horton, faltered in 2024, ranking outside the top 10 in efficiency, per FTN. The rookie offers a fresh start, though his 78.3% field-goal rate in 2024 raises questions about long-range reliability.
With 10 draft picks left, DeCosta can address other needs like edge rusher or receiver. Fan buzz on X, tagged #RavensFlock, debates Tucker’s legacy versus the rookie’s potential. Can this newcomer replace a legend, or will Tucker reclaim his form? Drop your take below!
