Veteran kicker and future Hall of Famer Justin Tucker has faced more scrutiny this season than ever before. It’s a strange place for the guy many call the GOAT of kicking—he’s been the Ravens' safety net for over a decade. But as Jeff Zrebiec tweeted earlier, there’s reason to feel optimistic about Tucker’s performance today.
Tucker seems to be having a pretty good warmup. Missed from 53 on one end, but kicked it again and made the next one. Hit from 57 on the same end. Also made it from 56 on the other end.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) December 15, 2024
Lot of attention on veteran kicker today, given his struggles.
The message is clear: Tucker looks ready to silence the doubters.
What version of Justin Tucker are the Ravens getting vs. the Giants today?
Ravens fans have been grappling with an unfamiliar reality this season: a less-than-automatic Justin Tucker. Through 13 games, he’s missed eight field goals and two extra points—a startling drop-off for a guy who’s built his reputation on pinpoint accuracy in the most high-pressure moments.
The misses haven’t been minor, either. Tucker’s struggles have directly contributed to losses, including a gut-wrenching defeat to the Eagles in Week 13. But his warmup session today, highlighted by makes from deep, feels like a step toward rebuilding confidence.
For Tucker, confidence has always been his secret weapon. He’s the guy who routinely drills 60-yarders in pregame like it’s a casual workout. He’s the kicker who hits from midfield without breaking a sweat. The question isn’t whether Tucker still has the leg—clearly, he does—but whether he can get his mechanics and mindset aligned.
Tucker’s ability to rebound has never been in doubt. This is a player whose career is built on overcoming challenges, from nailing clutch playoff kicks to breaking NFL records. What stands out about Zrebiec’s tweet is the note on consistency: Tucker missed one kick from 53 but corrected it on the very next try. That’s what Ravens fans want to see—a kicker adjusting, locking in, and proving to himself (and everyone watching) that he’s still the guy.
The fact Tucker hit from 57 and 56 yards during warmups is a good indicator he’s dialed in.
The Ravens are likely to lean on Tucker in this game, especially if the offense struggles to find the end zone. A strong showing today could be the spark he needs to reset his season and restore confidence heading into the playoffs.
For now, Ravens fans can breathe a small sigh of relief. Tucker isn’t done. He’s just building toward his next iconic moment. Maybe it comes today at MetLife. Maybe it’s in January when the stakes are highest. Either way, the greatest kicker in NFL history is warming up for something special.