The NFL community was floored when allegations of sexual misconduct from former Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker surfaced earlier this year. The NFL conducted an investigation into the allegations, and the Ravens made the decision to cut Tucker, although the franchise insisted that it was purely a “football decision.”
Now, the league has made its official ruling on what Tucker’s punishment will be, according to one prominent NFL insider.
“NFL is suspending former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker for the first 10 weeks of the upcoming season for violating the league’s personal conduct policy,” reported ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday.
Justin Tucker’s representative Rob Roche released a statement following news of the league’s punishment.
“We are disappointed with the NFL’s decision. Justin has always strived to carry himself in a way that would make his family and community proud. He stands by his previous statements. In order to put this difficult episode behind him and get back on the field as soon as possible, we have advised Justin to accept this resolution and close this matter.
“The people who know Justin best know his character and understand that while he remains fully committed to excellence as a football player, he is deeply dedicated to his most important lifetime roles as a father, husband, and friend.”
Fans reacted to the news on social media.
“Imagine if he was innocent, he’d be freaking out and immediately appealing… Dude just basically admitted to it,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“If I was an NFL player I’d simply just buy a massage chair for my house and call it a day,” someone else added.
“Who’s gonna sign him now?” one fan added.
Even after Tucker’s suspension is served, it may be difficult for him to land with another franchise.