The general manager of the Baltimore Ravens discusses selecting a replacement for Justin Tucker.

For over a decade, the Baltimore Ravens never had to worry about the kicking game. When No. 9 trotted onto the field, fans felt a unique sense of calm, a quiet confidence that points were on the board. Justin Tucker—often called “the most accurate kicker in NFL history”—was as automatic as they come. Game-winner after game-winner, booming 60-yard field goals, postseason heroics—Tucker defined the modern NFL kicker.

But as all great careers do, even Tucker’s time with the Ravens is nearing its inevitable conclusion. At 35 years old, Tucker has not shown dramatic decline, but General Manager Eric DeCosta knows the franchise must prepare for the future. And in a rare, candid interview at the Ravens’ practice facility in Owings Mills, DeCosta laid bare the challenge of eventually replacing a living legend.

“It’s Not Just Replacing a Kicker—It’s Replacing a Culture”

“When people talk about Justin, they always start with the stats,” DeCosta said, leaning back in his office chair. “But what we’ll have to replace one day is more than just a guy who can hit a 55-yarder. It’s the mindset he brings, the way he trains, the way younger players follow his lead.”

Tucker, an undrafted free agent in 2012, quickly earned the trust of Hall of Fame GM Ozzie Newsome and head coach John Harbaugh. Since then, he’s redefined what a kicker can be—an elite athlete, a charismatic leader, and a game-changer. As DeCosta put it, “There’s never been a kicker who felt more like a franchise player.”

The numbers back it up. Tucker holds the NFL record for field goal percentage among kickers with over 100 attempts, has made six Pro Bowls, and delivered the longest field goal in league history—a 66-yarder in 2021 to beat the Lions. His track record has made him both indispensable and irreplaceable. But, DeCosta noted, “that day is going to come.”

Preparing the Unthinkable: Life After Tucker

For the Ravens front office, the process of scouting kickers has never really stopped—even with Tucker as the incumbent. Special Teams Coordinator Chris Horton, along with DeCosta and the scouting department, keeps a short list of college prospects and veteran kickers they’ve quietly monitored for years.

“We scout kickers just like we scout quarterbacks,” DeCosta explained. “It’s a smaller pool, and most fans don’t see the competition. But believe me, we know who the top three kickers are in every draft. We evaluate mechanics, mental toughness, situational awareness—everything.”

When asked if they had a specific replacement in mind already, DeCosta offered a tight smile.

“We always have a plan,” he said. “Whether that plan becomes necessary this year, next year, or five years from now—we’re ready.”

The 2025 Draft and a Subtle Shift in Priorities

This year, with the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, there’s been chatter that the Ravens may use one of their late-round picks on a specialist. It wouldn’t be the first time—teams like the Bengals and 49ers have spent draft capital on kickers and punters in recent years, recognizing the value of elite special teams play.

“We wouldn’t shy away from drafting a kicker,” DeCosta admitted. “It has to be the right guy, someone we feel can handle not just the physical pressure, but the legacy he’s walking into. You don’t replace Justin Tucker with just anyone.”

Sources inside the organization say the Ravens have worked out at least three kickers during private sessions this spring, including former Texas standout Will Stone and Michigan’s James Turner, both known for strong legs and consistency. DeCosta refused to confirm names but acknowledged the team had “done its homework.”

Justin Tucker’s Role in Mentoring the Next Man Up

While Tucker remains the starter for the foreseeable future, he’s not blind to the reality of succession planning. In fact, he’s embraced the role of mentor to younger kickers brought in during training camp.

“Justin knows this game is about competition,” DeCosta said. “He’s always been willing to share insights, help a young guy improve his technique or mindset. That’s who he is.”

Last preseason, the Ravens briefly signed Jake Verity, a young kicker out of East Carolina. While he never truly threatened Tucker’s job, Verity credited Tucker with helping him “understand the mental side of kicking at the NFL level.”

DeCosta believes Tucker’s presence can actually ease the transition for the next kicker: “It’s like sitting behind Tom Brady—you don’t just learn how to kick; you learn how to be a pro.”

Fans’ Emotional Attachment: “This One Will Hurt”

Perhaps the biggest challenge the front office faces isn’t just replacing Tucker on the field—it’s replacing him in the hearts of Ravens fans.

“You’re talking about one of the most beloved players in franchise history,” DeCosta said. “This isn’t just a guy who makes kicks. He’s the opera-singing, game-winning, meme-inspiring heartbeat of our team.”

Indeed, Tucker’s charisma has made him more than just a football player. From performing opera in full pads to going viral for mic’d-up moments, he’s a cultural icon in Baltimore. DeCosta understands the emotional weight involved in his eventual departure.

“This one will hurt,” he admitted. “Fans will take this personally. Hell, I’ll take it personally. But we owe it to the team and to Justin to be prepared for whenever that time comes.”

The Legacy Standard: “We May Never See Another Like Him”

As DeCosta discussed potential replacements, he repeatedly circled back to the idea that Tucker’s unique legacy may never be fully replicated.

“We’re not looking for the next Justin Tucker,” he said. “We’re looking for someone who can carve out their own legacy while honoring the standard that’s been set.”

It’s a standard measured not just in field goal percentage or distance, but in game-winning moments and clutch performances. DeCosta listed off just a few—AFC North battles, playoff kicks, walk-offs from impossible angles.

“He’s done it all,” the GM said. “And when it’s all said and done, he’ll have a Hall of Fame case. That’s the shadow someone’s going to walk into.”

Long-Term Strategy: Insurance Policies and Open Competition

As the 2025 season nears, DeCosta hinted the team may bring in a kicker to compete in training camp—not necessarily as a direct challenge to Tucker, but as a developmental piece.

“There’s no downside to having a strong backup or a guy stashed on the practice squad,” he said. “Injuries happen. Or maybe we find someone who we develop over a couple seasons. It’s a long-term play.”

Internally, the Ravens are reportedly considering using one of their three sixth-round picks on a kicker if the board falls favorably. But DeCosta emphasized that such a move wouldn’t signal a lack of faith in Tucker—just organizational preparedness.

“Justin is still elite,” he said firmly. “He’s still the guy. But being prepared is what separates good teams from great ones.”

The Final Chapter? Not Yet.

DeCosta made clear that while the search for a successor is ongoing, it does not mean Tucker’s time is done.

“I want to be clear—this isn’t a farewell tour,” DeCosta said. “Justin Tucker is still Justin Tucker. He could play another five years. But when you have someone that great, you better start thinking ahead before the cliff—not after.”

And for now, Ravens fans will still get to see No. 9 lace them up every Sunday. The legend continues, but the torch is slowly being prepared. As the GM put it, “We’ll be ready when the time comes. But let’s enjoy the ride while we still can.”

Sidebar: Top Kicker Prospects the Ravens May Target

While the Ravens haven’t confirmed any specific prospects, here are a few names drawing attention as potential future NFL starters:

• Will Stone (Texas) – Big leg and a quick release. Strong showings in pressure games.
• James Turner (Michigan) – Consistent from 40-49 yards, known for clutch kicks.
• Brady Breeze (Oregon State) – Strong senior campaign and impressive combine showing.

Justin Tucker’s legacy in Baltimore is cemented—champion, record-holder, and icon. But the Ravens’ success has always been rooted in planning ahead. As GM Eric DeCosta prepares for the future, he walks a tightrope between honoring greatness and ensuring the team’s long-term stability.

The Ravens might not replace Tucker soon. But when they do, it’ll be with the same precision and care that defined his legendary career.