The NFL announced Thursday the suspension of free agent kicker and former Baltimore Raven, Justin Tucker, for violating the league’s personal conduct policy, which applies to all personnel affiliated with the 32 franchises-both on and off the field.
Several women have accused Tucker of sexual misconduct, prompting the league to launch an investigation into incidents that allegedly occurred in February. As a result, the NFL handed down a 10-week suspension.
Tucker was released by the Ravens on May 5 in what head coach John Harbaugh described as “a very difficult decision.”
The NFL has shown, time and again, that it can enforce strict disciplinary action when it chooses to. While some argue that the league often protects its members, others believe that, when necessary, the league delivers appropriate punishment.
Tucker’s response to the ruling
Jason Tucker expressed disappointment with the NFL’s decision and has denied the allegations made against him. His lawyer, Rob Roche, issued the following statement:
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.
The statement was read, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Details of the suspension
The suspension will take effect on August 26, coinciding with the league’s final roster cuts, and will remain in place through November 11. After that date, Tucker will be eligible to return to practice-if a team signs him by then or thereafter.
The NFL clarified that Tucker can serve the suspension even while unsigned. If he is picked up by a team during that span, he will be allowed to participate in training camp and preseason activities.
The NFL’s personal conduct policy states the following regarding violations:
“Criminal assault or battery (felony); domestic violence, dating violence, child abuse and other forms of family violence; or sexual assault involving physical force or committed against someone incapable of giving consent.”
It also notes that:
“The presence of possible aggravating factors may warrant a longer suspension.” These include, but are not limited to: “a prior violation of the policy, similar misconduct before joining the NFL, violence involving a weapon, choking, repeated striking, or when an act is committed against a particularly vulnerable person, such as a child, a pregnant woman, or an elderly person, or where the act is committed in the presence of a child.”
As the investigation unfolds, more information is expected to come to light in the days ahead.
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