The Baltimore Ravens made quick work of their kicking competition this summer, cutting undrafted rookie out of Wyoming John Hoyland on Saturday. Hoyland and his counterpart, Tyler Loop, were having a strong head-to-head battle in the past two weeks of training camp, but Loop’s dominant showing was too much to overcome.
The team’s recent decision to already move on from Hoyland should give Loop full reign of the kicking duties for the rest of camp and preseason. While it seems too soon to cut Hoyland, it allows the 2025 sixth-round pick Loop to gain as much experience as possible and work on his mechanics ahead of the regular season.
The John Hoyland move gives Tyler Loop full reign of kicking duties
The kicking competition was one of the primary focuses of this offseason. The rookies were flashing every day. Discounting Saturday’s practice, the two were neck-and-neck with each missing four kicks. However, Loop was already the preferred option, attempting 44 kicks to Hoyland’s 32.
With Loop’s draft pedigree and booming leg, it was already an uphill battle for Hoyland. The first two weeks proved too much for Hoyland to overcome, as they are starting to fill out other roster needs ahead of the preseason. While there is no one breathing down Loop’s neck now, the starting job is not guaranteed.
At Saturday’s press conference, Harbaugh gave an update on the team’s kicking situation. While the Hoyland release gives Loop every opportunity to earn the role, Harbaugh admitted this does not mean Loop is being served the job on a silver platter. He said:
“[Tyler Loop’s] kicking well enough to win the job. He had another really good day. This morning, he went over to the stadium and made them all. That’s all good, but as we all know, it’s gonna be the games. That's gonna mean the most.”
Although the outlook points to Loop taking what he deserves, it would not be a shock to see Baltimore bring in a veteran kicker to push him to be at his best. Players like Matt Prater or Nick Folk could give the Ravens some stability if Loop falters. Harbaugh mentioned bringing back Hoyland could also be in the cards if there is room on the roster. However, it looks like Loop is the guy to replace Justin Tucker.