Ravens downplay Justin Tucker's release with a tone-deaf statement

Congratulations to the Ravens for turning what should have been an easy public relations win into a self-inflicted wound.

On Monday, the Ravens finally cut embattled kicker Justin Tucker , four months after the Baltimore Banner published an expose detailing allegations of sexual misconduct by Tucker at Baltimore-area massage parlors.

Ravens kicker Justin Tucker's behavior was so egregious, two massage therapists say they ended his sessions early.

Two spas say they banned him.

https://t.co/gVphg3SFpf His dismissal should have been the end of the story.

But that's when Ravens executive vice president and general manager Eric DeCosta stepped in.

Statement from Ravens Executive Vice President and General Manager Eric DeCosta: pic.twitter.com/PGZxdLqVRa DeCosta followed the news by releasing a statement thanking Tucker and describing the decision to release him as "incredibly difficult." Here's a helpful note to teams: You don't have to thank players who've tarnished your brand.

In fact, you don't have to say anything at all.

What a concept! Last season, Tucker was a career-worst 73.3% on field goal attempts (22-of-30).

As we noted when the Banner first surfaced allegations against Tucker, his drop-off in on-field production was always going to be the likelier reason for him to be released.

It's still disappointing that the Ravens, who reasoned the move was made after "considering our current roster," played right into the already low expectations.

But it fits with the organization.

It's the same team that honored disgraced running back Ray Rice in 2023, a decade after he violently attacked his then-fiancee in a hotel elevator.

It's also the same team who selected defensive end Mike Green, who has faced two allegations of sexual assault , in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Ravens have proven by their actions that they'll overlook misconduct if it serves them well.

DeCosta's statement on Tucker simply said the quiet part out loud.

Eric Smithling is a writer based in New Orleans, LA, whose byline also appears on Athlon Sports.

He has been with Yardbarker since September 2022, primarily covering the NFL and college football, but also the NBA, WNBA, mens and womens college basketball, NHL, tennis and golf.

He holds a film studies degree from the University of New Orleans.

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