Justin Tucker's reputation as the most accurate kicker in NFL history has been well-earned, with a career success rate of 89.7%. However, the 2024 NFL season has proven to be a challenging chapter for the Baltimore Ravens' usually infallible star. As of Week 11, Tucker's accuracy on field goals has fallen to an uncharacteristic 79%, marking a decline that places him seventh-worst among those with at least ten attempts in the league.
Throughout this season's first 11 weeks, Tucker has missed six field goals, nearing his career-high single-season total of seven misses, recorded in 2015. This stuttering performance has raised eyebrows, especially given his historical precision in the kicking game. Such dips in form are unusual for Tucker, whose track record has long instilled confidence within the Ravens and their fanbase.
Trouble Against the Steelers
In a critical divisional game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tucker faced a tough outing earlier this season. Entering the game having converted 15 of 19 attempts, he uncharacteristically missed two in the first quarter—a 42-yarder and a 50-yarder. It was an unprecedented moment, marking the first time Tucker, or indeed any Ravens kicker, had failed twice in the opening quarter.
This rare lapse underscored the difficulties Tucker has experienced from longer distances in 2024. Up close, he has maintained his form, going a perfect 9 of 9 from 20 to 39 yards. Yet, his performance from 40 to 49 yards has slipped a bit, at 4 of 6, while his attempts from beyond 50 yards have particularly faltered, achieving only 2 of 6 this season. Alarmingly, this long-range struggle extends back to the previous season, with just 3 of 11 conversions over the two years.
Sustained Strengths Amidst Challenges
Even amidst this downturn, Tucker's consistency in other areas remains evident. His success rate on extra points stands impressively at 37 out of 38, reinforcing that his issues appear concentrated on longer-range kicks. Such stats provide a glimmer of confidence that Tucker’s troubles may be situational rather than systemic, offering hope for recovery as the season progresses.
With six games remaining after the Ravens’ current bye week, Tucker has the opportunity to turn his season around. Historically, he has shown resilience and the ability to adjust. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can regain the form that has made him a linchpin of the Ravens’ special teams.
While the Ravens navigate through the latter half of the season, Tucker's performance will be critical. Known not only for his accuracy but also his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, his return to form could be pivotal in Baltimore’s push for a successful postseason run. As it stands, the team must balance confidence in their veteran kicker with the reality of his current skid, trusting in his reputation for excellence and capacity for course correction.
The bye week offers a prime opportunity for reflection and adjustment, both for Tucker and the Ravens’ special teams unit. As he reviews his techniques and adjusts his strategies, fans remain hopeful that Tucker will once again reach the lofty standards to which he is accustomed, reaffirming his status as one of the NFL's all-time greats.