The New York Jets dealt with some major issues at the kicker position last season.
After a successful 2023 campaign, veteran Greg Zuerlein was re-signed and suffered one of the worst seasons of his career before injuries ended it prematurely. Zuerlein hit just 60% of his field goals and missed multiple game-tying or game-winning kicks throughout New York’s five-win season.
Because of this, the Jets have added some competition to his status as starting kicker. They brought back Anders Carlson and added Caden Davis as an undrafted free agent.
A big fish just became available as well.
Jets’ kicking needs to take a turn?
All-Pro kicker Justin Tucker was released by the Baltimore Ravens Monday evening in what the team claimed was purely a roster move.
“Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in Monday’s statement. “Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker.”
Tucker made a career-low 73% of his field goals last season with an uncharacteristic 11-of-19 performance on kicks beyond 40 yards out. At 35 years old, it’s hard to see Tucker returning to his elite self.
That’s the main football reason why the Jets shouldn’t sign Tucker.
There are obvious off-the-field concerns as well.
Tucker has been accused of inappropriate behavior by 16 massage therapists from eight different Baltimore spas and wellness centers. The All-Pro has denied any wrongdoing, and the league is investigating the matter.
It’s important to note that no criminal or civil charges have been filed at this time.
Whether the Ravens want to admit it or not, the reason for cutting Tucker went beyond just the fact that he suffered a down year. It’s also because he has severe accusations surrounding him that are just coming to light this offseason.
For the Jets, Tucker’s off-field concerns are a direct contrast to how head coach Aaron Glenn has repeatedly said he wants to build the team. Glenn made it clear the team was to move “in silence” and without major distractions.
They have accomplished that for the most part this offseason. By potentially bringing in Tucker, it would wipe away all the talk of culture and chemistry that the Jets are trying to build.
It’s true. New York definitely has a kicking problem.
But those issues won’t be solved by an aging, declining, and controversial player in Tucker.
