In a historic move during the 2025 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens selected Arizona kicker Tyler Loop in the sixth round (186th overall), marking the first time in franchise history they have drafted a kicker. This decision comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of longtime Ravens kicker Justin Tucker, who is currently under investigation for allegations of misconduct.
Tyler Loop: A Rising Star
Tyler Loop concluded his college career at the University of Arizona with an impressive record. Over five seasons (2020–2024), he made 67 of 80 field goals, including a school-record 62-yard kick in 2024. Additionally, he converted 126 of 128 extra point attempts and led the FBS with 53 touchbacks on 56 kickoffs in his senior year. His consistent performance and strong leg earned him recognition as one of the top kicking prospects in the 2025 draft class.
Loop’s selection by the Ravens signifies a strategic move to bolster the special teams unit and potentially prepare for a future transition at the kicker position. Notably, he is the first kicker ever drafted by the Ravens, highlighting the team’s commitment to enhancing all facets of their roster.
Justin Tucker: A Legacy in Jeopardy
Justin Tucker has been a cornerstone of the Ravens’ special teams since joining the team in 2012. With a career that includes seven Pro Bowl selections, five All-Pro honors, and the record for the longest field goal in NFL history (66 yards), Tucker has long been regarded as one of the most reliable kickers in the league.
However, Tucker’s recent performance has raised concerns. In the 2024 season, he missed several critical field goals, including two in a narrow 18–16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, contributing to a career-low field goal percentage of 71.4%. Despite these struggles, head coach John Harbaugh expressed confidence in Tucker’s abilities, stating that the team had no plans to bring in competition for the job.
Off the field, Tucker is currently under NFL investigation following allegations from 16 women accusing him of inappropriate behavior at Baltimore-area spas between 2012 and 2016. Although Tucker has denied the claims, the Ravens have not publicly announced any intentions to replace him.
Strategic Implications for the Ravens
The decision to draft Tyler Loop amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Justin Tucker suggests that the Ravens are proactively addressing potential future uncertainties at the kicker position. General Manager Eric DeCosta had previously indicated that the team was evaluating kickers in the draft, acknowledging that “nobody goes forever.”
While Tucker’s legacy with the Ravens is secure, the team’s actions indicate a readiness to transition if necessary. Loop’s selection provides the Ravens with a promising option who can learn from Tucker and potentially take over the role in the coming seasons.
The Baltimore Ravens’ selection of Tyler Loop in the 2025 NFL Draft represents a forward-thinking approach to roster management, ensuring depth and preparedness at the kicker position. As the investigation into Justin Tucker unfolds, the team is positioning itself to maintain stability and continue its pursuit of excellence in special teams.
