Justin Tucker Eyes NFL Comeback, Works Out With Jets After Suspension and Misconduct Allegations

Veteran kicker Justin Tucker was among three players who participated in a workout with the New York Jets on Wednesday, according to league reports. Michael Badgley and Joshua Karty were also in attendance as the team evaluated potential additions to its special teams unit.

Return to the Field and Suspension

Tucker, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished kickers in NFL history, has not played in the league since the 2024 season. He remained unsigned throughout the 2025 season after serving a 10-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.

Allegations and Denial

The suspension followed public reports in January 2025 by a Baltimore publication, which detailed accusations from 16 female massage therapists. These individuals alleged sexual misconduct and inappropriate behavior by Tucker during sessions conducted between 2012 and 2016 at eight different spas located in and around the Baltimore area.

The Baltimore Ravens, Tucker’s team for 13 seasons, released him in May of that year following the emergence of these allegations.

Despite the serious nature of the claims, Tucker has never faced criminal charges or civil lawsuits related to the accusations. He has consistently and vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

In the month following his release from the Ravens, Tucker, accompanied by his wife, Amanda, and his legal team, provided information they contended cast doubt on the veracity of the accusations. His attorneys, led by Joe Terry of Williams & Connolly, presented various materials.

Among the details highlighted by Tucker’s legal team was an email from one accuser, sent in 2016, which expressed that it had been "a pleasure working with you" when Tucker terminated his membership at one of the spas. It is important to note that this information alone does not conclusively prove Tucker’s innocence.

Contrasting Paths: Tucker and Watson

The allegations against Tucker drew parallels to the situation involving quarterback Deshaun Watson, who also faced accusations from multiple massage therapists. Watson was accused by more than two dozen women and ultimately resolved 23 civil lawsuits. He received an 11-game suspension from the NFL in 2022.

Despite the numerous allegations, Watson went on to sign the NFL’s first fully guaranteed multiyear contract with the Cleveland Browns, a five-year deal worth $230 million. In contrast, the Ravens chose to release Tucker after the allegations against him became public, casting uncertainty over his future in the league.

A key difference in their situations appears to be the perceived value of each player at the time. The Browns evidently believed Watson, then a franchise quarterback, was still in his prime. However, Watson has not consistently returned to his previous elite performance level and has been considered one of the league’s more disappointing starting quarterbacks since his move to Cleveland.

Tucker’s circumstances are distinct. He is a kicker who will turn 37 in November and is coming off what was statistically the least productive season of his career. In 2024, his field-goal conversion rate was a career-low 73.3%.

In professional sports, teams often weigh a player’s off-field issues, even if unproven, against their on-field performance and potential contribution. To date, teams evaluating Tucker have seemingly not concluded that his talent outweighs the complexities surrounding his past.

Performance and Future Prospects

Prior to his workout with the Jets, Tucker had also tried out for the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts. Neither team ultimately chose to sign him, indicating the challenges he faces in securing a roster spot.

Justin Tucker did not respond to a request for comment regarding his recent workout or future prospects.