Introduction
Justin Tucker, long revered as the NFL’s most accurate and dependable kicker, now finds his legacy overshadowed by serious personal conduct allegations. In mid-2025, the NFL suspended the 35-year-old free agent for the first 10 games of the season. This article explores:
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What happened to Justin Tucker?
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Is he retired—or just suspended?
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Why was he suspended?
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What has his wife said?
Let’s unpack each of these key points with clarity and depth.
1. What Happened to Justin Tucker?
Early Elite Career
Justin Tucker signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2012. Over 13 standout seasons, he earned All-Pro honors five times, was a seven-time Pro Bowler, and cemented his place among the greatest kickers in history. He holds the NFL records for the longest field goal (66 yards) and highest career field goal percentage (89.1%)
Recent Decline and Release
After a career-worst performance in 2024 — converting only 73.3% of his field goal attempts and missing several crucial kicks — the Ravens released him on May 5, 2025
Allegations Emerge
Shortly before his release, The Baltimore Banner (Jan. 2025) published accounts from six massage therapists alleging inappropriate sexual conduct—such as exposing himself, brushing against masseuses, and leaving fluids on the massage table—during sessions between 2012 and 2016. Two spas reportedly banned him. When the initial story broke, more therapists came forward, bringing the total number of accusers to 16 across eight Baltimore-area spas.
NFL Investigation & Suspension
In response, the NFL conducted an investigation and concluded Tucker violated the league’s personal conduct policy. On June 26–27, 2025, he was suspended without pay for the first 10 games of the 2025 season. The suspension starts on August 26 (roster cut-down day), and he is eligible for reinstatement on November 11. As a free agent, Tucker may sign with a team, attend training camp, and participate in preseason games during his suspension.
2. Is He Retired—or Suspended?
Status: Suspended, Not Retired
As of now, Justin Tucker is not retired. He remains a free agent with eligibility to re-enter the league post-suspension. The Ravens’ decision to release him was officially attributed to performance (“football reasons”), not the allegations. There has been no announcement or indication from Tucker or his representatives that he intends to retire.
3. Why Was He Suspended?
Personal Conduct Policy Violation
The NFL’s decision to suspend Tucker for 10 games stemmed from concluded findings of a breach of the league’s personal conduct policy. The accusations came from 16 massage therapists alleging sexual misconduct during treatment sessions between 2012 and 2016.
Negotiated, Non-Legal Resolution
The suspension wasn’t court-ordered. Instead, it appears to have resulted from a confidential, negotiated agreement between the NFL and Tucker’s representatives, avoiding formal legal action.
Prior Comparisons
Media analysts drew parallels between Tucker’s suspension and that of Deshaun Watson, though Watson’s penalty came amid lawsuits and a heavier public legal battle. Tucker’s resolution, in contrast, was quieter and privately brokered.
4. What Has His Wife Said?
Amanda Tucker’s Statement
Justin Tucker’s wife (often referred to as Amanda Bass in some reports) issued a statement in February 2025 (via OutKick), expressing unwavering support:
“The false allegations against Justin have caused so much hurt to our family. I believe my husband, and I love and support him fully.”
His Own Denial
Tucker publicly denied all allegations, calling them unequivocally false and explaining he had never been told he was unwelcome in any massage setting. He emphasized respect for the profession and apologized if anyone felt otherwise The SunPeople.comWikipedia.
Summary Table
| Question | Answer Summary |
|---|---|
| What happened? | Released by Ravens amid sexual misconduct allegations; suspended 10 games by NFL. |
| Is he retired? | No—he’s suspended, still a free agent, eligible to return post-suspension. |
| Why suspended? | NFL concluded he violated its personal conduct policy following probe of allegations by massage therapists. |
| Wife’s stance? | She publicly supports him, calling the allegations false and hurtful. |
Broader Context
A Brilliant Career, Tarnished
Justin Tucker’s career was defined by remarkable consistency and nerve. He was a clutch performer, gracing the NFL’s top kicking statistics. Yet his 2024 season raised questions—his accuracy dipped significantly, and the team moved on at running risk.
The Fallout
The allegations prompted the NFL to respond internally rather than through public court battles. This has left much ambiguity for fans and observers alike.
The Road Ahead
If Tucker signs post-suspension and plays again, his journey back may be rocky. Endorsement deals, public opinion, and locker-room trust remain major hurdles.
Conclusion
Justin Tucker’s story in 2025 is a dramatic turn—from NFL legend to free agent under suspension. While he is not retired, his return to the field is indefinitely postponed until November 11. The suspension stems from violations of conduct policy tied to allegations of sexual misconduct made by multiple massage therapists. His wife stands firmly by him, refuting the claims and stressing the impact on their family.
The upcoming months will determine whether Tucker resumes his once-illustrious career or faces lasting consequences beyond the 10-game ban.
