In the midst of a storm regarding alleged misconduct accusations is the legendary kicker for the Ravens.
Allegations have surfaced against Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker, accusing him of inappropriate behavior with six massage therapists in the Baltimore area. According to reports from The Baltimore Banner, the therapists claim Tucker exposed himself during sessions and, in two cases, made physical contact with them using his genitals.
Two spas involved have reportedly banned him. Tucker’s attorneys, Thomas A. Clare and Steven J. Harrison, have strongly denied the claims, calling them “false” and “spurious,” and stated that their client was never banned from the spas in question.
In response to the allegations, Tucker released a statement defending his character and condemning the accusations. “I have always made a conscious effort to be considerate and respectful in all of the interactions with the community that I love so much,” he said, adding that the situation was “devastating” for him.
Tucker’s future in question as Ravens evaluate allegations
The league’s policy allows for disciplinary action if a player’s behavior poses a “genuine danger” to others or undermines the NFL’s integrity. For serious violations, such as sexual assault involving physical force or lack of consent, a six-game unpaid suspension is typical. Investigators may also consider patterns of misconduct or premeditated actions when determining penalties. However, NFL investigations can take months, leaving Tucker’s immediate future in the hands of Ravens officials.
The situation could test the Ravens’ long-standing “zero-tolerance” policy on misconduct, which gained prominence after the infamous 2014 incident involving former running back Ray Rice. At the time, Rice was released by the team and indefinitely suspended by the NFL after video evidence showed him punching his now-wife in an elevator. Reflecting on that policy in 2022, Ravens coach John Harbaugh stated, “You have to know the truth, you have to try to understand the circumstances… but we’ve stayed away from that particular situation.“
Despite this policy, the Ravens have shown flexibility in recent years. In January 2024, they signed running back Dalvin Cook amid allegations of assault and false imprisonment from an ex-girlfriend. Cook later settled the lawsuit, maintaining he was the “victim in this situation.” This nuanced approach raises questions about how Tucker’s case will be handled.