Justin Tucker is one step closer to returning to the NFL. Following sexual misconduct allegations that nearly derailed his career, the former Baltimore Ravens kicker has reportedly been offered a chance with a team willing to give one of the greatest kickers of all time another shot.
Tucker became eligible to return after serving a 10-game suspension stemming from allegations that surfaced earlier this year.
In January, 16 female massage therapists from the Baltimore area accused Tucker of misconduct between 2012 and 2015. The NFL conducted its own investigation and issued the suspension shortly afterward.
The Ravens released Tucker in May, but once his suspension ended, several teams expressed interest. Among them were the New Orleans Saints, who recently parted ways with their kicker.
Will Tucker join the Saints?
According to NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo: “The Saints are working out veteran kicker Justin Tucker today, sources tell me and @RapSheet.”
However, Tucker isn’t the only candidate. Garafolo confirmed: “Veteran kicker Cade York is also getting a workout today, as @nick_underhill reported.”
New Orleans is in urgent need of a replacement after cutting Blake Grupe, who missed two field goals in the team’s 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons.
Tucker’s legacy
Despite the allegations, Tucker’s on-field résumé is hard to ignore. The 14-year veteran won Super Bowl XLVII with the Ravens, earned seven Pro Bowl selections, and was named All-Pro five times.
He ranks fourth all-time in field goal percentage (89.1%) and 14th in career field goals made (417). Whether that’s enough for the Saints to overlook the controversy remains to be seen.
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