Justin Tucker: Navigating the Ups and Downs of a Challenging Season
At 34 years old, Justin Tucker has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history. Known for his remarkable field goal accuracy, which stands at an awe-inspiring 89.7% over his career, Tucker is often relied upon to deliver under pressure for the Baltimore Ravens. However, the current season has presented unforeseen challenges for the typically sure-footed kicker.
Tucker's prowess comes as no surprise to avid NFL followers. His consistency from short distances is undisputed, with a flawless record this season of 3-for-3 from 20 to 29 yards and 6-for-6 from 30 to 39 yards. Even within the 40 to 49-yard range, he has maintained a respectable 4-for-6 record. It is from beyond 50 yards, however, where Tucker's struggles have become pronounced — recording a 3-for-7 performance so far this season. Despite these difficulties, Tucker managed to make a crucial adjustment, leading to a successful 54-yard attempt during the recent clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Ravens' rivalry game against the Steelers was emblematic of such challenges. Tucker missed his first two long-range field goal attempts in the opening quarter, marking an atypical start for both the kicker and the team, as it was the first time a Ravens kicker missed twice in the initial quarter of a game. Despite these setbacks, Tucker recalibrated and successfully converted a 54-yard attempt later in the third quarter. As he explained, each kick is distinct, as evidenced by his comment: "Each kick is its own kick."
The Ravens ultimately fell 18-16 to the Steelers, a narrow defeat that highlighted the tremendous impact of every point attempt in divisional matches. Tucker, however, did manage to successfully convert his sole extra-point attempt, thus continuing his near-perfect extra-point conversion this season, having made 38 out of 39 attempts.
There was curiosity about whether there might be a common thread to the missed kicks Tucker experienced. When asked, he matter-of-factly responded, "Not really, no," implying that every situation on the field may require individual evaluation and adjustment. This measured approach perhaps reflects his extensive experience and understanding of the game's unpredictable nature.
Adding to the complexity of the season, Tucker stands on the cusp of equaling his personal record of seven missed field goals in a year — a figure he last hit in 2015. With six games remaining on the Ravens' 2024 schedule, every opportunity will be pivotal not only for Tucker's statistical accomplishments but for his team's playoff aspirations.
This season's trials underscore the pressures of consistency in professional sports, even for a player of Tucker’s caliber. His combination of thorough preparation, mental resilience, and experience still positions him favorably in the league. As the narrative unfolds and the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Tucker as he aims to guide his leg back to the impeccable form that has long been his hallmark.