Leading NFL draft prospects the Ravens might look at if Justin Tucker is let go

The NFL Draft is one of the most exciting events in the league, especially for teams like the Baltimore Ravens, who have historically made strong draft choices to build a competitive roster. As a team with a rich history of success, the Ravens are known for their ability to draft players that contribute both immediately and in the long-term future. However, one of the most interesting scenarios that could unfold in the 2025 NFL offseason is the potential release or departure of Justin Tucker, the team’s legendary kicker.

Tucker, widely regarded as one of the best kickers in NFL history, has been a consistent and reliable piece of the Ravens’ special teams unit since joining the team in 2012. As a result, he holds several franchise records and is an important part of the Ravens’ overall identity. His incredible accuracy, both in field goals and extra points, has been a key factor in their success over the years.

However, as with any player, there may come a time when the team needs to make difficult decisions based on salary cap constraints, age, or the desire to get younger and more flexible at certain positions. In this scenario, it’s possible that the Ravens might consider moving on from Justin Tucker, which could open up an opportunity to draft his replacement in the 2025 NFL Draft.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the leading draft prospects the Ravens might target if they were to part ways with Tucker. While Tucker’s skill set is elite, the Ravens have traditionally placed a high value on all positions, including special teams, so it’s important to consider all angles when it comes to potential replacements.

1. Anders Carlson (Auburn)

A name that immediately comes to mind when discussing potential replacements for Justin Tucker is Anders Carlson, the kicker out of Auburn. Carlson, the younger brother of former NFL kicker Daniel Carlson (currently with the Las Vegas Raiders), has been one of the most reliable kickers in the SEC for several seasons. He possesses a strong leg and has shown the ability to connect from long distances, making him an appealing prospect for a team looking for a new kicker.

Carlson has the potential to be one of the top kickers selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, and his familiarity with high-pressure situations in the SEC could give him an edge in the NFL. With accuracy that rivals some of the top kickers in college football, Carlson would be an ideal candidate to replace Tucker, especially if the Ravens are looking for a long-term solution.

One of Carlson’s most notable qualities is his consistency on both extra points and field goals. He has demonstrated a strong leg, hitting multiple kicks from over 50 yards during his college career, making him a good fit for a team like the Ravens that places a premium on kickers who can contribute in critical moments.

2. Zane Smith (Miami)

Another intriguing name to consider for the Ravens’ kicker position is Zane Smith from the University of Miami. Smith is a powerful kicker with a strong leg, and he has been a staple of Miami’s special teams for the past few years. While he may not have the same name recognition as some other top kickers in the 2025 class, Smith’s raw power and potential could be enough to catch the attention of NFL scouts and teams looking for a potential replacement for Justin Tucker.

One area where Smith excels is his ability to convert long-range field goals. He has demonstrated consistency and accuracy from beyond 50 yards, which is a valuable trait for any NFL kicker, especially a team like the Ravens, who have had success with big kicks in clutch moments. Additionally, Smith has shown he can handle pressure, making him a solid candidate to step into the high-stakes environment of the NFL.

3. Jake Moody (Michigan)

Another top kicker prospect in the 2025 draft class is Jake Moody out of Michigan. Moody has had a standout career at Michigan, becoming one of the most consistent and reliable kickers in college football. He has shown accuracy both on extra points and field goals, and he has a solid leg that allows him to convert from long distances.

Moody’s background in high-pressure situations in the Big Ten, one of the toughest conferences in college football, would make him an attractive option for the Ravens. As a player who has competed in numerous high-profile games, Moody could step into an NFL environment without the jitters and provide stability at the kicker position.

In addition to his field goal accuracy, Moody’s kickoffs have also been consistently solid, which could give the Ravens an all-around specialist for their special teams unit. His ability to handle kickoffs and contribute on both offense and defense on special teams would make him an immediate contributor in Baltimore.

4. Noah Ruggles (Ohio State)

Noah Ruggles from Ohio State is another name that could be on the radar of the Ravens if they need a new kicker. Ruggles has built a strong resume during his time with the Buckeyes, earning All-Big Ten honors and being known for his consistency in critical moments. He is a player who has shown the ability to perform under pressure, especially in big games, and this kind of mindset could translate well to the NFL.

Ruggles has a solid leg and has shown proficiency from beyond 50 yards. His accuracy, particularly on field goals, would be an important asset for the Ravens if they are looking to continue their tradition of having a reliable kicker. While not as heralded as some other prospects, Ruggles is a proven kicker in a major college program and has the potential to develop into a solid NFL player.

5. Tyler Bass (Georgia)

Although Tyler Bass of Georgia is likely a long shot for the Ravens to target in the 2025 NFL Draft, he is another kicker that deserves mention. Known for his tremendous leg strength and accuracy, Bass has been a standout player in college football and would be a great option if the Ravens were looking for a young kicker with immense upside. His ability to consistently make long-range kicks could make him an appealing target.

In addition to his strong leg, Bass has displayed an ability to handle pressure, which would be crucial in the NFL. He’s also proven to be a solid kickoff specialist, which adds further value to his skillset. The Ravens may be looking for a kicker who can handle all aspects of the kicking game, and Bass fits that mold.

6. Cameron Dicker (Texas)

Another kicker worth considering is Cameron Dicker from Texas. Dicker has been a highly efficient kicker during his time with the Longhorns, and his strong leg, combined with his accuracy, makes him a viable candidate for any team in need of a replacement for a veteran kicker. Dicker has experience in clutch situations, having kicked several game-winning field goals in his college career, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure moments.

Dicker’s accuracy, particularly on extra points and short-range field goals, would be a reliable asset for the Ravens. Additionally, his ability to kick off and contribute to special teams beyond just field goals could be valuable for Baltimore, who has always placed an emphasis on special teams play.

Potential Strategy for the Ravens

If the Ravens are indeed looking to part ways with Justin Tucker, they’ll likely aim to find a successor who not only has the leg strength and accuracy required but also the ability to perform well under pressure. With a stable roster that already includes talented players on offense and defense, Baltimore’s focus will be on finding a kicker who can step in and deliver in high-leverage situations, much like Tucker has done throughout his career.

Furthermore, the Ravens will likely prioritize kickers who have demonstrated the ability to handle kickoffs, as this is another important aspect of the kicking game. A player with the ability to contribute in all areas of special teams, rather than just field goals, will give Baltimore more flexibility and allow them to maximize their roster space.

While there is no clear-cut replacement for a player as accomplished as Justin Tucker, the 2025 NFL Draft class offers several talented kickers who could develop into reliable contributors for the Ravens. Each of the kickers mentioned above has the potential to step into the NFL and handle the responsibilities that come with being a franchise kicker.