FOOTBALL
NFL suspends Tucker for 10 weeks
NEW YORK -- The NFL suspended former Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker for the first 10 weeks of the season on Thursday for violating its personal conduct policy.
The suspension takes effect on Aug. 26, which is roster cutdown day, and Tucker is eligible for reinstatement on Nov. 11. Tucker remains free to try out with and sign with a team. If he is signed, he can attend training camp and participate in preseason games. If he remains without a team, he can still serve the suspension and return in November.
The 35-year-old became a free agent after the Ravens released him last month in the aftermath of reports that he was accused of inappropriate sexual behavior by massage therapists. Tucker has maintained he did not act inappropriately while receiving professional treatment.
A five-time All-Pro, Tucker has played his entire 13-year career with Baltimore. He is considered one of the best kickers in NFL history, although 2024 was his worst season.
The Baltimore Banner since January has reported that more than a dozen massage therapists have accused Tucker of inappropriate sexual behavior.
FILE - Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker watches his kick during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Dec. 1, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, file)
FILE - Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker watches his kick during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Dec. 1, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, file)
FILE - Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) walk on the field before an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun, FIle)
FILE - Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) walk on the field before an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun, FIle)