ExtremeRavens

The 150th Preakness Stakes is on Saturday at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. While we don’t have a Triple Crown contender with Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty skipping the event, there’s still plenty to look forward to. What is your favorite part of Preakness weekend? We want to hear from you. After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

After two straight years of the Ravens playing on the road on Christmas, it’s unlikely they will do so again this year. They are, however, headed back to Orchard Park, New York, where quarterback Lamar Jackson will face off against reigning NFL Most Valuable Player and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen in a rematch of last season’s divisional round showdown in which Baltimore’s Super Bowl hopes ended in nightmarish fashion. Though Baltimore’s home and away opponents are already known, the NFL will announce its full schedule Wednesday night, with select matchups trickling out beginning Monday morning. Last season, Baltimore had the league’s second-toughest schedule (based on opponents’ 2023 win percentage) and finished 12-5 and as AFC North champs. This year, the schedule makers were a bit kinder with the ninth-most difficult slate, though it does include eight teams that made the playoffs last season. Here are five things to know about this year’s Ravens schedule: Who will the Ravens play at home? Baltimore will host nine games at M&T Bank Stadium after having eight regular-season games there last year. In addition to the usual three against the division rival Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns, they’ll also play the Rams for a third time in four years in Baltimore. The Ravens split their last two meetings with Los Angeles, which included a wild 37-36 walk-off win on Tylan Wallace’s punt return for a touchdown in overtime in 2023. Other home games include two against teams from the NFC North — the Detroit Lions, who went 15-2 last season, and the Chicago Bears — and two from the AFC East — the New York Jets and New England Patriots. They’ll also play the Texans for a fourth time since 2023, which included last season’s 31-2 Christmas blowout in Houston and 34-10 divisional round rout at M&T Bank Stadium during the 2023 season. Who will the Ravens play on the road? Much of the difficulty of Baltimore’s schedule can be attributed to its road opponents this year. For the second straight year, the Ravens will travel to Arrowhead Stadium, where they will play the three-time defending AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs. They’ll also return to the site of last season’s heartbreaking divisional round loss to the Bills with another game at Highmark Stadium. Baltimore will travel to Lambeau Field to play the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota to face the Vikings. Those four teams combined for a 53-15 record last season, and all four teams made the playoffs. The Ravens will also play the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium, 30 minutes south of where Jackson grew up. It will mark the fourth meeting between the teams over the past five years with the Dolphins winning in both 2021 and 2022. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, shown running onto the field last year, makes the Ravens a top choice to play in prime-time games. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) How many prime-time games will the Ravens have? As long as Jackson is playing quarterback, the NFL is likely to showcase him a healthy amount in prime time. Last season, Baltimore had five nationally televised night games. That included the league’s kickoff opener against the Chiefs, which Kansas City won, 27-20, after Isaiah Likely was ruled out of bounds in the back of the end zone on a potential game-tying touchdown as time expired. This year, there’s no shortage of possible opponents for a similar number of prime-time games. In addition to games with the Chiefs and Bills, a showdown against the Packers and their star quarterback Jordan Love would be appealing, as would Baltimore’s game against Detroit, which would showcase two of the game’s top offenses from a season ago. The Rams and quarterback Matthew Stafford, the Dolphins and at least one divisional opponent are also potential options. Will the Ravens have an international, Christmas or Thanksgiving game? Though Baltimore signed a United Kingdom marketing deal this offseason, that doesn’t mean an immediate trip overseas. Only three of the Ravens’ opponents are slated to host an international game, and two of those (Steelers in Ireland; Browns in London) are divisional games. The NFL has played just three division games outside the United States since it started its international series, and Baltimore is not among the teams scheduled to be the host team for an international game. That leaves the Dolphins, who will host a game in Spain this season, though the Commanders and Bengals have been most linked as their potential opponents in Madrid. As for Christmas, after two straight road games on the holiday, it’s unlikely the league would make it a hat trick. Thanksgiving, however, could potentially be an option. Baltimore has played on Thanksgiving just twice and not since 2013 as defending Super Bowl champions against the Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium. The Ravens’ other Thanksgiving game was in 2011 in the first “Harbaugh Bowl” when John’s brother Jim was the coach of the San Francisco 49ers. Baltimore won both games at home. Related Articles Lamar Jackson hosts day of racing, fun and charity at Pimlico Race Course Former Ravens LB Tyus Bowser withdraws $4.5 million grievance against team Former Ravens edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney released by Panthers READERS RESPOND: Fans react to Justin Tucker’s release by Ravens Massage therapists respond to Ravens cutting Justin Tucker: ‘Not just about him’ Which teams have the toughest and easiest schedules? The New York Giants had the third-worst record in the league last season. Their reward: The NFL’s toughest schedule. The Giants’ opponents had a .574 winning percentage last season, and in addition to games against the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles and Commanders, who reached the NFC championship game, their schedule also includes matchups against the Chiefs, Lions, Vikings, Packers and Los Angeles Chargers. The league’s easiest schedule, meanwhile, belongs to the San Francisco 49ers, who are coming off a 6-11 season and whose opponents had a winning percentage of just .415 last season. The Ravens, as mentioned, have the ninth-hardest schedule with their opponents having combined for a .533 winning percentage last season. The only teams Baltimore faces that didn’t make the playoffs last season are the Bengals, Browns, Patriots, Jets, Dolphins and Bears. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Before the 150th Preakness Stakes, there was another big horse racing event in Baltimore. The National Thoroughbred League began its 2025 season Saturday at Pimlico Race Course, with the New York Knights capturing the Pimlico Cup. The NTL is a 10-team thoroughbred racing league entering its third season with teams from Maryland, Philadelphia, California, New York, New Jersey, Nashville, San Francisco, St. Louis, Phoenix and Miami. Ravens quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson is the lead owner of the Maryland Colts. On Saturday, Jackson served as the host as three NTL races, each worth $75,000 in purse money, featured 3-year-olds and upward. New York won Pimlico’s sixth race with Addy’s Laddy T N T, ridden by 17-year-old Yedsit Hazlewood and trained by Jose Corrales, finishing the 6-furlong event by 1-1/2 lengths. King’s River (Nashville) rallied from off the pace to take the seventh race at 1 1/8 miles on turf, and betting favorite Cactus tracked and pounced his way to victory for Miami in the final race. All 10 teams entered one horse from their roster in each participating race, and the team with the most points for the year wins the overall NTL Championship. Last year, the Philadelphia Stallions, owned by NBA Hall of Famer Julius Erving, won the title. Kids race in a horse balloon race started by Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson signs autographs for fans during the NTL Pimlico Cup, a day of racing excitement at Pimlico just a week before the 150th Preakness. Jackson is one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, center, poses for pictures with young fan who won the kids' balloon horse race at Pimlico Race Course. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Lamar Jackson, right, one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts, shares laugh with Gov. Wes Moore, left, during the NTL Pimlico Cup, a day of racing excitement at Pimlico just a week before the 150th Preakness. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Quarterback Lamar Jackson, second right, laughs as he watches a kids horse balloon race at Pimlico Race Course. Jackson, one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts, hosts the NTL Pimlico Cup, a day of racing excitement at Pimlico just a week before the 150th Preakness. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Quarterback Lamar Jackson waves a Ravens flag to start a kids horse balloon race at Pimlico Race Course. Jackson, one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts, hosts the NTL Pimlico Cup, a day of racing excitement at Pimlico just a week before the 150th Preakness. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Lamar Jackson, one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts, arrives to host the NTL Pimlico Cup, a day of racing excitement at Pimlico just a week before the 150th Preakness. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Quarterback Lamar Jackson waves a Ravens flag to start a kids horse balloon race at Pimlico Race Course. Jackson, one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts, hosts the NTL Pimlico Cup, a day of racing excitement at Pimlico just a week before the 150th Preakness. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Show Caption1 of 8Kids race in a horse balloon race started by Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is one of the owners of the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Expand Jackson became involved in the organization to help launch the Forever Dreamers 8 Scholars program, a fully funded apprenticeship that gives high school seniors in Park Heights a chance to work in Maryland’s thoroughbred industry. A cohort of eight high schoolers (in honor of Jackson’s No. 8) will spend their senior year working various jobs that include horse training, veterinarian duties and sales work, which also has the backing of Gov. Wes Moore and his wife, Dawn. “When they graduate, hopefully a bunch of these local residents will have jobs waiting for them,” NTL co-founder Randall Lane told The Baltimore Sun last month. Forever Dreamers held a kickoff fundraiser on Friday night at The Horse You Came In On Saloon in Fells Point, which helped cover costs for Baltimore Community Day on Saturday as Pimlico hosted thousands of local children. It was an all-day party at Pimlico with celebrity meet-and-greets, a kids’ “hippity hop” race over the historic Pimlico track, live music and an appearance by Moore, who gave the “riders up” call alongside Jackson. The winner of the “hippity hop” race got to meet Jackson and take a photo with him near the track. NTL plans to also host events at Parx Racing, Fairmount Park, and Kentucky Downs this year with the hope of expanding its audience, particularly younger fans. “By having more big event weekends and running teams that people can follow and star horses under each team on a regular basis, we think that we can bring a lot of new fans to thoroughbred racing,” Lane told Daily Racing Forum. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

Former Ravens linebacker Tyus Bowser has withdrawn his grievance against the team, a source with direct knowledge of the matter confirmed to The Baltimore Sun. The move comes about a year after the 2017 second-round draft pick claimed Baltimore had misdiagnosed a knee injury that sidelined him for the 2023 season. In March of that year, the Ravens released Bowser and he filed a $4.5 million grievance against the team the following month. The Ravens were hit with a $1.8 million salary cap penalty as a result and would have faced another one for $2.7 million if Bowser had won his case. But with Bowser withdrawing the complaint, Baltimore will receive a $1.8 million cap credit. Last October, Bowser, 29, told The Sun that he suffered loose bodies in his knee — fragments of bone or cartilage that break off and float in the knee joint, causing pain, swelling and limited range of motion — and that he later got a staph infection. “I went the entire year without knowing exactly why my knee was reacting the way it did, and then I go to somebody else [for an opinion] and he tells me within 10 minutes what the problem is,” he said at the time. “Something as simple as an MRI you’ve seen millions of times, you can’t see this simple thing. That’s nobody else’s fault but yours.” But now, Bowser has apparently backed off those claims. The Ravens selected Bowser out of Houston in 2017 and in March 2021 signed him to a four-year, $21 million extension. He went on to have his best season that year, starting all 17 games and finishing with 59 tackles, including eight for loss, seven sacks and two forced fumbles, all career highs. However, Bowser has struggled to stay healthy in recent years. Related Articles Former Ravens edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney released by Panthers READERS RESPOND: Fans react to Justin Tucker’s release by Ravens Massage therapists respond to Ravens cutting Justin Tucker: ‘Not just about him’ Will former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker ever play football again? Baltimore looking to host NFL draft in near future, official says In 2022, he appeared in just nine games (four starts) after undergoing surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon in January of that year. The following season, coach John Harbaugh expected Bowser to be available by the start of the regular season but he instead spent the year on the non-football injury list and remained with the team throughout, even joining them on a trip to London for the their game against the Tennessee Titans. After the Ravens released him, Bowser signed with the Seattle Seahawks’ practice squad last August and appeared in two games (one start) for coach and former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald. He was then signed by the Dolphins and appeared in nine games (five starts) for Miami and defensive coordinator and former Ravens defensive line coach Anthony Weaver. Bowser finished the year with 11 tackles and is currently a free agent. The Athletic was first to report the news. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers released veteran Jadeveon Clowney on Thursday after selecting two edge rushers in the NFL draft. Clowney, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 draft, had 5 1/2 sacks last season for the Panthers. The 32-year-old had one year left on his two-year, $20 million contract. The Panthers drafted Texas A&M’s Nic Scourton in the second round and Mississippi’s Princely Umanmielen in the third round in last month’s NFL draft with an eye to getting younger at the position. Carolina also signed free agent Patrick Jones II in free agency. Carolina’s other edge rushers include D.J. Wonnum, DJ Johnson, Amare Barno, Kenny Dyson, Thomas Incoom and 2021 second-round pick Boogie Basham. Clowney tied a career-high with 9 1/2 sacks for the Ravens in 2023 and was a key contributor on a defense that became the first to lead the NFL in sacks, takeaways and points allowed per game. He signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with Baltimore in August and thrived with the Ravens under then-defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald. In addition to ranking second on the team in sacks, he had his best pressure rate, pass-rush win rate and most total pressures in a season, according to Pro Football Focus, and was a disruptive force against the pass and run. He also had 43 tackles and two forced fumbles. “I enjoyed coming to work,” Clowney said of his time in Baltimore after the 2023 season ended in the AFC championship game. “It made my life a lot easier this year. That’s probably why I played at a high level because I [didn’t] have any pressure. I would just come in, have fun and be yourself and just play ball. There was never any pressure throughout the week on anybody, but yes, I would love to come back here.” The Panthers also placed running Jonathon Brooks, the team’s second-round pick in 2024, on the physically unable to perform list — meaning he will not play in 2025. Brooks re-tore the ACL in his knee as a rookie in Week 14 after suffering a similar injury to the same knee during his final season at the University of Texas. The Panthers had prepared for just such a scenario with Brooks, adding depth to the running back room this offseason by signing free agent Rico Dowdle from the Dallas Cowboys and drafting Trevor Etienne from Georgia in the fourth round. Carolina also waived tight end convert Colin Granger, a former college basketball player, as part of an injury settlement. The team also released tight end Jordan Matthews and receiver Dax Milne, and waived receiver T.J. Luther, offensive lineman Andrew Raym and defensive tackle Jerrod Clark. Related Articles READERS RESPOND: Fans react to Justin Tucker’s release by Ravens Massage therapists respond to Ravens cutting Justin Tucker: ‘Not just about him’ Will former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker ever play football again? Baltimore looking to host NFL draft in near future, official says 5 things we learned from Ravens rookie minicamp View the full article

We asked readers what they thought led to the Ravens releasing kicker Justin Tucker. Here are the results from our online poll: Allegations of inappropriate behavior — 52% (346 votes) All of the above — 40% (265 votes) His football performance — 6% (40 votes) Other issue — 2% (11 votes) Rookie kicker team drafted — 1% (6 votes) Here’s what some fans told us about the Ravens cutting Tucker (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): I think they know more than they are letting on. Otherwise, why draft a kicker? I am sure performance from last year plays a major part. — Kranski Whatever happened to innocent until proven guilty? — Robin Ficker Whether he’s innocent or guilty, the situation may have weighed on his performance last year. And would likely have been even worse this year. Between his performance and the distraction surrounding his situation, the team may have figured there was more downside than upside. They probably made the right decision. — John Devine The idea that it’s “performance only” is a little silly. Come on. The Ravens have excellent security and investigation people. They wouldn’t, in May, hand the keys over to a rookie who has yet to make a single kick in camp without having uncovered something(s) we may never be privy to. Something tipped the scales to make this call now after sticking with him week after week of costly misses. — Doc The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To see results from previous sports polls, go to baltimoresun.com/sportspoll Related Articles Massage therapists respond to Ravens cutting Justin Tucker: ‘Not just about him’ Will former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker ever play football again? Baltimore looking to host NFL draft in near future, official says 5 things we learned from Ravens rookie minicamp Justin Tucker timeline: The events leading to Ravens kicker’s release View the full article

After the Ravens announced Monday that they were releasing Justin Tucker as part of a “football decision” — making no mention of the allegations of sexual impropriety toward area massage therapists — some who work in the spa industry nevertheless said they were hopeful this was a sign that their concerns had been heard. “I’m sure a lot of people are gonna feel like they have more of a leg to stand on” if they come forward with similar allegations, Michelle Krause, a licensed massage therapist in Severna Park, told The Baltimore Sun. Baltimore’s decision to part ways with Tucker, came after 16 female massage therapists earlier this year accused Tucker of sexually inappropriate behavior between 2012 and 2016 at several Baltimore-area high-end spas. Tucker could not be reached for comment, but has previously denied any wrongdoing, and he has not been charged with a crime. The NFL is investigating the allegations against him. Alexandria-based law firm Clare Locke, which Tucker hired earlier this year, also did not respond to multiple messages sent by The Sun over several days seeking comment. “Our clients’ experiences were extremely traumatic,” Michael Belsky, an attorney representing at least 12 of the accusers, said in a statement. “While we have no comment on the decision to release Mr. Tucker, the continued lack of acknowledgment of these experiences is profoundly disappointing.” Massage therapy is a profession fraught with damaging stigmas and abuses of power, according to those who work in the industry. After news broke of the allegations against Tucker, some said it further amplified the false perception that sexual behavior is welcomed within a massage room. Tucker is accused of sexually inappropriate behavior, including “exposing his genitals, brushing [massage therapists] with his exposed penis, and leaving what they believed to be ejaculate on the massage table after three of his treatments,” according to a report by The Baltimore Banner. “It’s been going on in this industry, the spa industry, for years and nobody’s speaking about it,” said Cindy Tawiah, who owns Diva Day Spa and Healing Center in Upperco. “Nobody’s saying anything because the therapists — oh, my God — they’re embarrassed. Some of them end up leaving the profession.” “It’s hard to believe somebody that a lot of people would hold in high regard would do a thing like that,” Tawiah said. “But this is not just about him. There are others as well.” There’s a private social media forum for area massage therapists to speak openly about their field of business — anything from job postings to pertinent current events. Multiple therapists say that’s where one of the accusers first disclosed her experience, evoking a thread of comments from others who said they had similar encounters with Tucker or had heard similar stories. Related Articles Will former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker ever play football again? Justin Tucker timeline: The events leading to Ravens kicker’s release Could the Ravens have worded Tucker’s release differently? Critics say yes. Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY READER POLL: What factor most led the Ravens to cut Justin Tucker? One therapist posted a picture Monday evening, sharing the announcement of Tucker’s release and asking her peers how they felt about the news. Some noted their frustration that massage therapists are encouraged to speak up, only to be undermined when they do. Others sent virtual love and hugs, encouraging one another. There were commenters who called out the difference in reaction for massage therapy versus the more buttoned-up reputation of physical therapy. And some plainly showed support for the team’s decision to release Tucker. The comments on the post were eventually turned off when the conversation veered into aggression toward one another about what remains a sensitive issue within the profession. Baltimore releasing Tucker won’t solve the problem of misperceptions about the massage industry, therapists and business owners said. But it’s a start. “These therapists are going to get a chance to be heard,” Krause said. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Justin Tucker spent the past 13 years with the Ravens, making him what had been the longest-tenured player on the team. That tenure in Baltimore came to an unceremonious and extraordinary end with his release Monday. Now the question is: Is his NFL career over, too? While general manager Eric DeCosta’s statement announcing the Ravens’ decision to part ways with Tucker made no mention of the numerous sexual misconduct allegations against the kicker by several massage therapists from multiple Baltimore-area spas, the accusations continue to hang over the 35-year-old veteran. Tucker has denied the allegations, has not been charged criminally and is not the subject of any civil litigation. The NFL’s investigation into Tucker is ongoing and a potential suspension under the league’s personal conduct policy could be in the works. That would likely be one of several factors that could impact whether he has a future in the league with another team or if he has booted his last NFL kick. The Baltimore Sun discussed Tucker’s future with four longtime NFL agents, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the nature of the allegations against Tucker. All of the agents also have represented players who have played for the Ravens at one point or another, have familiarity with Baltimore’s organizational thinking and in some cases represented players who have gone through the suspension process. What’s next for Tucker? From a timing standpoint, much will depend on the outcome of the league’s investigation, which could still take several more weeks. But three years ago, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was initially suspended by the NFL for six games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy after more than 20 women alleged that he committed sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions. That was eventually increased to 11 games and included a $5 million fine, with Watson denying the allegations and reaching confidential settlements with most of his accusers. All the agents The Sun spoke with agreed that Tucker is likely facing a suspension, though the number of games could will depend on the league’s findings and Tucker’s cooperation. “He has a choice,” one of the agents said. “My guess is the league has or will come to him with an offer and say, ‘If you fight this, we’re going to go for 10 games. If you take the deal and admit guilt, we’ll offer six or eight.'” Added another agent: “For the Ravens to do what they did before the investigation concluded speaks volumes and says there’s no good news coming on Tucker’s front.” Will he ever play again? This, too, could hinge on not just the outcome of the investigation but Tucker’s response to it, some of the agents said. “I think he’s in very precarious position because it’s an ongoing investigation,” one of them said. “From an agent standpoint, you’re saying what the f—? What can we do? How do you sell him as a player to a team? Are they going to want to bring that circus to town? I think most teams are going to say no.” The same agent also cited Kansas City Chiefs punter Matt Araiza, who before the start of his rookie season with the Buffalo Bills in 2022 was accused along with two former San Diego State teammates of raping a 17-year-old girl in 2021. The Bills released him the next day and said they only became aware of the allegations after they had drafted him. But in December 2022, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office decided not to file criminal charges, and the woman dropped her civil lawsuit against him the following December. Araiza, who had filed a defamation suit against her, did not admit guilt, and no money was exchanged as part of the agreement for both parties to drop their respective suits. It wasn’t until February of last year when another team, the Kansas City Chiefs, signed the “Punt God,” as he was known in college for averaging an NCAA-record 51.2 yards per punt in his final season. “It’s highly likely [Tucker] sits out a year,” the agent said. “The only way he doesn’t is if he gets cleared.” Said a different agent: “The choice he has to make is to decide that if he wants to play, he has to take the deal. If he’s suspended 6-8 games, by the time it’s up, a team fighting to get in the playoffs would sign him. If he fights it, trying to prove he’s innocent, no one will touch him while the investigation is ongoing, which could last through the season. Nobody fights it. Everybody takes the deal.” Related Articles Justin Tucker timeline: The events leading to Ravens kicker’s release Could the Ravens have worded Tucker’s release differently? Critics say yes. Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY READER POLL: What factor most led the Ravens to cut Justin Tucker? Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation In other words, Tucker could be back with a team as soon as this season. “Deshaun Watson’s still out there,” one of the agents said. “Of course it’s recoverable. He’s a kicker, but he’s the best kicker in NFL history.” How did the Ravens handle it? Much has been made about the Ravens’ handling of Tucker since the allegations were first made just over three months ago in a Baltimore Banner report. Some fans called for the team to part ways with him immediately. Then there was DeCosta’s statement on Monday, which made no mention of the accusations and lauded Tucker’s contributions on the field, thus drawing criticism in several circles for its garrulous fawning of a possible Pro Football Hall of Fame career that will likely be forever stained. However, while the situation caused a visceral reaction for many, it also largely played out as expected, according to agents who have represented players under investigation by the NFL. Because they are still allegations, Tucker has denied them, he hasn’t been charged criminally nor is facing any civil lawsuits, the Ravens had to be careful and measured in the team’s responses throughout, the agents all said. Had the Ravens released him right away, doing so before an investigation had begun or when it was in its early stages, it could also set a tricky precedent, the agents said, because an investigation needs to play out and/or allegations proven true. It’s also probable the Ravens have some sense of what’s coming in terms of a potential punishment for Tucker. “We knew the range of the suspension before we even got the offer from the league,” one agent said, referencing a different case with a client. “There’s back and forth with the NFL Players Association lawyer. The Ravens know something is coming.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens have made it no secret that they want to host the NFL draft. Terry Hasseltine, vice president of the Maryland Stadium Authority’s marketing and communications group, got an up-close look at the event last month in Green Bay, Wisconsin, which the league said was attended by 600,000 fans over the three days. “We are only in the exploratory phase at this time,” Hasseltine said. Pittsburgh is hosting next year’s NFL draft. Washington has already secured the rights to host the draft in 2027 on the National Mall, and Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris said that he expects “over a million people” to attend. Related Articles Will former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker ever play football again? 5 things we learned from Ravens rookie minicamp Justin Tucker timeline: The events leading to Ravens kicker’s release Could the Ravens have worded Tucker’s release differently? Critics say yes. Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY As a result, the state is looking to possibly host the event in 2029, 2030 or 2031, Hasseltine said at the Maryland Stadium Authority meeting on Tuesday. The NFL draft used to be held annually at Radio City Music Hall in New York, but has moved around the country since landing in Chicago in 2015. Philadelphia, Dallas, Nashville, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Kansas City and Detroit have previously hosted it. Green Bay, the NFL’s smallest market, hosted the draft last month outside historic Lambeau Field. The Buffalo Bills, who are building a new $1.7 billion stadium, have reportedly requested to host the draft in either 2028 or 2029. The Ravens are making major renovations to M&T Bank Stadium for the next two years, so those improvements could boost the franchise’s status. Team president Sashi Brown said the Ravens will eventually make their pitch to host the event. “We’re very interested in trying to convince the league that Baltimore is going to be the best site for the draft of all time,” Brown said at this year’s NFL owners meetings. “We’re working with the folks at the city of Baltimore and the state … but we’re a ways away before the league makes any decisions on that. It’s just on us to convince them that our city is going to the right site.” Baltimore Sun reporter Brian Wacker contributed to this article. Have a news tip? Contact Todd Karpovich at tkarpovich@baltsun.com or on X as @ToddKarpovich. View the full article

The past few days marked the first time Ravens coaches were able to see this year’s rookie class in action on the field. In all, there were more than 60 players on the grass for rookie minicamp at the team’s training facility in Owings Mills, with 11 draft picks, 24 undrafted free agents and around 30 tryout invitees all being put through the early paces of NFL life. Among them was new safety and first-round pick Malaki Starks, who unexpectedly broke down the huddle at the end of practice on Sunday afternoon in what was the only session open to reporters. “[Coach John Harbaugh] threw me off with it, but it was an honor, and I don’t take it lightly,” Starks said. “I’m happy I got to do it, and hopefully I can do it again.” With the next meaningful gathering of players not until May 27-29 for voluntary organized team activities, here’s a look at five things we learned from the nearly two-hour session: Top draft picks will be expected to contribute immediately Picking near the bottom of the first and second rounds of the draft doesn’t necessarily yield players who will be major contributors right away (see: Kansas City Chiefs rookie offensive tackle and top draft pick Josh Simmons). But when it comes to Starks and edge rusher Mike Green, it’s likely both will be expected to be on the field early and often for Baltimore this season. Aside from being positions that needed help, both have the skills to see significant time. “You start with Malaki and down through, and we drafted all those guys for a reason, and they’re guys who made plays at a high level in college, disruptive-type players, every one of them,” Harbaugh said. “They all have a shot. We’ll see how they do.” As for first impressions? That Starks broke down the huddle speaks to his maturity and leadership, two things he was praised for by scouts across the league during the predraft process. As for Green, he declined to elaborate on two previous sexual assault allegations that continue to hang over him, but on the field, he unsurprisingly looked the part of a prototypical pass rusher. “I think you see it kind of up close and personal, the explosiveness and the size,” Harbaugh said of the 6-foot-3, 251-pound former Marshall standout. “He’s a big guy.” Ravens outside linebacker Mike Green, shown practicing, is expected to compete for immediate playing time in 2025. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The stage was set for Justin Tucker to be released Asked at the Ravens’ end-of-season news conference in January if the team would bring in a kicker to compete with Justin Tucker after the 35-year-old had easily his worst season with just 73% of his fields goals made, Harbaugh said he had “every expectation” that Tucker would be Baltimore’s kicker for the 2025 season. That was also just before allegations of sexual misconduct by more than a dozen massage therapists from several Baltimore-area spas made Tucker the subject of an NFL investigation that is still ongoing. On Sunday, when Harbaugh was asked about the dynamic of Tucker and sixth-round draft pick Tyler Loop being on the field at the same time come voluntary organized team activities later this month, he hinted that a “football decision” could be made “in the next few weeks.” That decision came just over 24 hours later with the Ravens announcing Tucker’s release. As for how Loop and invitee John Hoyland out of Wyoming looked, both missed some kicks, some badly so. Related Articles Justin Tucker timeline: The events leading to Ravens kicker’s release Could the Ravens have worded Tucker’s release differently? Critics say yes Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY READER POLL: What factor most led the Ravens to cut Justin Tucker? Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation That’s a change from whenever Tucker was on the field, of course. As the most accurate kicker in league history, misses from Tucker were rare. But it’s also to be expected for a couple of kickers working with a new battery of snapper and holder while also potentially working on some mechanics under the watchful eye of senior special teams coach Randy Brown. Loop did appear to have a good amount of power behind his kicks. Aeneas Pebbles has personality — and some game Sixth-round picks are hardly surefire things. Add in being an undersized defensive tackle and 6-foot, 282-pound Aeneas Peebles might seem like a bit of a long shot to have an impact. Still, his college numbers at least make a case. Pebbles’ 27.3% pass-rush win rate (minimum 70 rushes in true pass rush sets) last season at Virginia Tech ranked first among interior defensive linemen, according to Pro Football Focus. He was the only defensive tackle in the class with at least a 90 pass rush grade each of the past two seasons. He also has plenty of energy and personality. Ravens defensive lineman Aeneas Peebles, shown speaking to the media, showcased his personality and athleticism at rookie minicamp. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The day he was drafted, wrote on ’X,’ “Yall messed up letting me in the door nfl now ima make it my home!!!!!” On Sunday, he expounded on that when asked about being disappointed over falling to the sixth round. “That’s the same chip [on my shoulder] that I’ve had my whole life,” he said. “Whether that had to do with the NFL draft, or whether that had to do with just how I came up in high school, I just feel like I’ve always had that chip on my shoulder, and it’s helped to get me here. So, I just continue to let that fuel me.” He also has a nickname: Fub. “I got the nickname ‘Fub’ when I was a little kid, so I rarely hear my government name nowadays,” he said. “But, when I was a baby, I was fat and chubby, so they always called me ‘Fubby’ growing up, and now that I got older, it got shortened to ‘Fub,’ so I ran with it.” Veteran offensive tackle was a need The Ravens were in the market for a veteran offensive swing tackle regardless, but that need took on a little more importance when Harbaugh revealed that “it’s going to be a little while” until third-round rookie tackle Emery Jones Jr. is ready to play because of a shoulder injury. Enter veteran Joseph Noteboom, whom the Ravens signed to a one-year deal on Saturday. Noteboom, 29, spent his first seven years with the Los Angeles Rams, and though he has struggled in pass protection the last couple of seasons, he provides valuable depth and flexibility at a position that needed both. “A veteran, talented guy, who’s played on both sides, really to focus probably as a swing tackle as much as anything for us, and that’s kind of where we really, really need that veteran presence — as a swing tackle, play both sides — and then yes, he can pop down there at guard, but I think we’ll be focusing on tackle,” Harbaugh said. “But a really big signing for us.” “You start with Malaki and down through, and we drafted all those guys for a reason, and they're guys who made plays at a high level in college, disruptive-type players, every one of them,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “They all have a shot. We'll see how they do.” (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Joint practice update One bit of news to come out of the rookie minicamp is that Harbaugh said he has spoken with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Commanders about joint practices. However, the team is awaiting the release of the preseason schedule before finalizing its plans. Baltimore played both teams during the 2024 regular season, but neither is among its opponents in the regular season this year. The Ravens beat the Buccaneers in Tampa, 41-31, and knocked off the Commanders, 30-23. The NFL will announce its full schedule on May 14. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens released longtime kicker Justin Tucker on Monday, ending his tenure with the franchise after 13 seasons. The decision comes after Tucker was accused of sexual misconduct by more than a dozen Baltimore-area massage therapists and amid an NFL investigation into the allegations. The accusers spoke out over the offseason, detailing Tucker’s alleged inappropriate actions from 2012 to 2016. On the field, Tucker’s 2024 season was also the worst of his illustrious career, as he missed a career-high eight field goals. Here’s a timeline of how we arrived at his release on Monday: Jan. 19: Ravens’ season ends The Ravens’ 2024-25 season ended in heartbreak, as they fell to the Bills by a mere two points in the AFC divisional round. Tucker was perfect in the loss, making both field goal attempts and his lone extra point attempt. Still, the longtime kicker’s season was the worst of his professional career. He made just 73.3% of his field goals, the only time in his career he’s made fewer than 80% of his kicks in a season. Tucker also missed a pair of extra points, giving him 10 missed kicks on the season. Jan. 22: Ravens back Tucker in news conference Baltimore’s brass suggested they still had faith in Tucker after his mediocre season during the team’s end-of-season news conference. “We’ll have those discussions, but I think I have every expectation that Justin’s going to be a great kicker for us next year and moving forward,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said. Coach John Harbaugh echoed those statements. It was expected that Baltimore would stick with Tucker for the immediate future in its effort to win a Super Bowl. Jan. 30: Allegations of sexual misconduct come out The Baltimore Banner detailed allegations of sexual misconduct against Tucker from local massage therapists. The allegations cited Tucker’s behavior from 2012 to 2016, during the early portion of his career with the Ravens. Related Articles Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation READER POLL: What factor most led the Ravens to cut Justin Tucker? Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. Ravens draft kicker for first time amid Justin Tucker uncertainty NFL on investigation into Ravens’ Justin Tucker: ‘Won’t be giving updates’ Ravens president on Justin Tucker’s accusers: ‘A lot of courage and bravery’ Protecting Justin Tucker: Ravens kicker hires law firm for those facing ‘high-profile reputational attacks’ Ravens’ Justin Tucker expresses empathy for accusers in new statement denying allegations Tucker denied the allegations, which ranged from him exposing himself during massages to leaving ejaculate on the massage tables. “The allegations in The Baltimore Banner article about me are unequivocally false,” Tucker wrote in a statement posted to social media. Tucker has not been charged with any crimes, nor is he the subject of any civil suits related to the accusations. Feb. 2: More accusations levied against Tucker Allegations against Tucker piled up in the days after the initial report. Through Feb. 2, Tucker faced nine accusations of inappropriate sexual behavior from massage therapists. The accusations, one of which was detailed to The Baltimore Sun, matched a similar description to the first allegations. “He was erect,” an anonymous massage therapist explained to The Sun of a previous massage she gave Tucker. “He laid face down, and his hand reached up on my inner thigh.” The therapist said she ended the massage session after the alleged inappropriate touching by Tucker. Feb. 12: Massage therapists address industry stigma The Sun reported on how massage therapists were reacting to the allegations against Tucker. Several industry professionals spoke about the negative sexualized stigma sometimes associated with massage therapy. “Massage therapists are dedicated healthcare professionals who uphold high standards of ethics, training, and client care,” the American Massage Therapy Association said in a statement to The Baltimore Sun. “Their role in promoting health and wellness should never be overshadowed by the misconduct of individuals who violate professional boundaries.” Feb. 16: Additional allegations against Tucker The number of allegations against Tucker grew to 16, according to Baltimore Banner reports. All of the allegations were cited as occurring between 2012 and 2016 in the Baltimore area. Feb. 26: NFL investigators are in Baltimore The Baltimore Sun reported that NFL investigators were in Baltimore speaking with some of Tucker’s accusers. It’s unclear what possible penalty Tucker might face from the league for his alleged behavior. On the same day, Tucker and his wife, Amanda, were quoted in an article from Outkick about the allegations. It was the first, and only, time Amanda Tucker has publicly spoken about the allegations against her husband. “The false allegations against Justin have caused so much hurt to our family. I believe my husband, and I love and support him fully,” Amanda Tucker said in a statement to Outkick. March 30: Team president speaks Ravens president Sashi Brown discussed the allegations against Tucker at the NFL’s annual owners meetings, including sharing broad support for women who speak out against sexual misconduct. “The nature of these allegations we take very seriously,” Brown said in late March. “These investigations do take time. “That’s never satisfying to anybody involved, probably including Justin and certainly the folks who made the allegations very public. But this is an issue generally as a society in terms of women making claims that takes a lot of courage and bravery, and frankly as a society, we haven’t gotten right for too long.” Justin Tucker, left, and Ravens coach John Harbaugh share a moment after a game against the Browns in 2016. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff file) April 1: NFL won’t offer investigation updates At the annual league meetings, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell made clear there would not be periodic updates given publicly about the investigation into Tucker. “I know the review is ongoing,” Goodell said. “We won’t be giving updates, but when we have something, we’ll certainly share something with you.” April 26: Ravens draft kicker Baltimore drafted Arizona’s Tyler Loop in the sixth round of the NFL draft. Loop, who made a career-long 62-yard kick in 2024, was viewed as one of the top college kickers available in the draft. Loop made 18 of his 23 field goals this past season, including going 6-for-9 from beyond 50 yards. Tucker missed five of his 11 kicks from beyond 50 yards last season. May 4: Harbaugh addresses Tucker’s future After the Ravens’ rookie minicamp, Harbaugh suggested any decision related to Tucker would focus solely on his ability as a kicker. Baltimore’s coach, who had a close relationship with Tucker during the kicker’s time with the franchise, spoke about the uncertainty of the ongoing NFL investigation into Tucker. “From the standpoint of the investigation, we don’t know anything,” Harbaugh said. “So you can’t make any decisions based on that. Every decision we make has to be based on football. There’s a lot of layers to that.” He then lauded praise on his rookie kicker, Loop. “The way the ball comes off his foot is impressive,” Harbaugh said. May 5: Ravens release Tucker A day later, Baltimore announced it had released Tucker. “Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances. Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker,” DeCosta said in a statement. Baltimore didn’t mention the allegations against Tucker in its statement about the kicker’s release. The NFL’s investigation into Tucker is ongoing. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

Longtime Ravens kicker Justin Tucker was released by the team Monday, months after more than a dozen local massage therapists alleged sexual misconduct against the NFL star. Some reactions to his departure have included criticism of the team’s messaging that emphasized the positive and ignored the negative. “Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances. Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in Monday’s statement. “Justin created many significant and unforgettable moments in Ravens history. His reliability, focus, drive, resilience and extraordinary talent made him one of the league’s best kickers for over a decade. We are grateful for Justin’s many contributions while playing for the Ravens. We sincerely wish him and his family the very best in this next chapter of their lives.“ An anonymous massage therapist who previously spoke to The Baltimore Sun about her experience with Tucker deferred to the attorney representing her and at least 11 other massage therapists. “Our clients’ experiences were extremely traumatic. While have no comment on the decision to release Mr. Tucker, the continued lack of acknowledgment of these experiences is profoundly disappointing,” attorney Michael Belsky, who represents at least 12 of the massage therapists, wrote in a statement to The Baltimore Sun on Monday. Clare Locke, an Alexandria-based law firm known for handling reputation defense cases whom Tucker hired earlier this year, did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday, though the kicker has previously denied any wrongdoing. Some in sports media questioned the tone of DeCosta’s statement. ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes asked on X if the “fawning” tone was necessary, posting that it “ben[t] over backwards to praise the incredible resilience of a guy accused by 16 different women of sexual misconduct.” Jared Dubin, an NFL analyst for CBS, wrote that the statement seemingly contradicted the Raven’s “zero-tolerance policy,” although it became apparent earlier this year that the team’s policy is informal, with each incident being taken on a case by case basis. “The Ravens want to make very sure that you know they’re not actually sticking to their self-professed organizational zero-tolerance policy and they’re only releasing Justin Tucker because he sucked last year,” Dubin said in an X post responding to the statement. Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey gave an inscrutable response to the news that his teammate was let go, leaving four “thinking face” emojis in a post on X. The Ravens’ statement was likely trying to “reduce the offensiveness” of releasing Tucker from the team amid the allegations “by stressing good traits” he and the Ravens shared before the allegations became public said Towson University’s Juan Liu, an assistant professor of public relations, in an email to The Sun. “This is a very popular and common crisis response strategy that has been used by many sport organizations,” Liu said. Related Articles Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation READER POLL: What factor most led the Ravens to cut Justin Tucker? Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. Ravens draft kicker for first time amid Justin Tucker uncertainty NFL on investigation into Ravens’ Justin Tucker: ‘Won’t be giving updates’ Ravens president on Justin Tucker’s accusers: ‘A lot of courage and bravery’ Protecting Justin Tucker: Ravens kicker hires law firm for those facing ‘high-profile reputational attacks’ Ravens’ Justin Tucker expresses empathy for accusers in new statement denying allegations Despite the standing zero-tolerance policy, the Ravens recently drafted another player with sexual assault allegations against him. Newly drafted edge rusher Mike Green has twice been accused of sexual assault, with accusations stemming from his high school days and from his time at University of Virginia. Though other teams reportedly had taken Green off their draft boards, DeCosta said he was “comfortable” using the 59th pick on the player after meeting with him. Green has denied the allegations. The general manager spoke directly to those concerned about the pick, seeming not to mince words. “We investigated this situation very thoroughly,” DeCosta said on April 26. “He’s a talented player. We understand the severity of what these allegations were, of course. But doing our due diligence, we are comfortable with Mike.” Have a news tip? Contact Racquel Bazos at rbazos@baltsun.com, 443-813-0770 or on X as @rzbworks. View the full article

Some days, there appear to be no winners, even in the world of sports. The Ravens released kicker Justin Tucker on Monday, amid an NFL investigation into allegations from more than a dozen female massage therapists accusing him of sexual misconduct at several Baltimore-area spas and wellness centers. Tucker had denied any wrongdoing, and the team did not cite the allegations in its statement about cutting ties with their longest-tenured player. Tucker loses because his family and reputation are involved, not including a possible nomination to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Ravens don’t win because they are losing perhaps the greatest kicker of all time. Even the massage therapists don’t win because of the hostility they have surely faced by coming forward with their stories. That had to be difficult. Are there any winners? I don’t see any. The Ravens had to make a decision on Tucker, and they probably already had word from NFL officials that he was likely to face a suspension. Just a day ago, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said, “From the standpoint of the investigation, we don’t know anything. So you can’t make any decision based on that. Every decision we make has to be based on football.” Surely, word about the outcome of the NFL’s investigation into Tucker and the evidence it has accumulated has trickled down — that’s how the league works. It always wants to control the narrative. The team gave us a clue late last month when they drafted Arizona’s Tyler Loop in the sixth round — the first kicker to be drafted in Ravens history. It was viewed more as an insurance policy, but it was a strong indication. There has been no official conclusion of the investigation conducted by the NFL, and maybe Tucker, an undrafted free agent signed out of Texas in 2012, can sign on with another team. His reputation, though, is already soiled. Regardless of whether the accusations are true, they will follow him for the rest of his life. There is great sympathy for his wife and son. The same feeling holds true for the Ravens and this organization, not just because of Tucker’s Hall of Fame-level accuracy, but because he was an integral part of this team. Tucker was a face for this team, almost as much as former owner and the late Art Modell, current owner Steve Bisciotti and Ozzie Newsome, the team’s vice president of player personnel and longtime former general manager. Tucker participated in the team’s annual Holiday Helpers event, served Thanksgiving Day meals and served as host of the annual Goodwill Gridiron Halloween Party. He was a man of and about Baltimore, even singing opera and playing a psychiatrist on Royal Farms commercials. No player in Ravens history has appeared in more commercials than Tucker, once a marketer’s dream. Now, let’s talk about the accuracy of his kicks — his performance, after all, is what the Ravens cited as the reason for cutting Tucker. Before this season, Tucker had made 395 of 438 field goals during the regular season and 18 of 22 in the postseason. That’s 90.2% in the regular season and 81.9% in the postseason. In the playoffs, Tucker converted on all of his field goals in five of seven years. He earned — and deserved — the nickname, Mr. Automatic. Will he get into the Pro Football Hall of Fame? Yes, because if any of the Hall of Fame selections were based on poor character issues, there wouldn’t be many enshrined at Canton, Ohio. As for the massage therapists, they have regained some integrity, but it had to be difficult and painful to recount those allegations against Tucker. We know the NFL investigators spoke to some of them. Those stories had to be tough to recount. Related Articles Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. Ravens draft kicker for first time amid Justin Tucker uncertainty NFL on investigation into Ravens’ Justin Tucker: ‘Won’t be giving updates’ Ravens president on Justin Tucker’s accusers: ‘A lot of courage and bravery’ Protecting Justin Tucker: Ravens kicker hires law firm for those facing ‘high-profile reputational attacks’ Ravens’ Justin Tucker expresses empathy for accusers in new statement denying allegations “Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement. “Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker. Justin created many significant and unforgettable moments in Ravens history. His reliability, focus, drive, resilience and extraordinary talent made him one of the league’s best kickers for over a decade. We are grateful for Justin’s many contributions while playing for the Ravens. We sincerely wish him and his family the very best in this next chapter of their lives.” The words are sincere and show an appreciation for Tucker. Regardless of what has happened in the past, it’s time for this city to move on. It’s going to be hard because Tucker had such a dominant presence here in Baltimore. In time, we will hear more about the allegations, and the NFL will conclude its investigation and shed light on what it found. But for right now, there just aren’t any winners. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. Justin Tucker was the Ravens' longest-tenured player, starting his career with Baltimore in 2012. (Kim Hairston/Staff file) View the full article

The Ravens say releasing longtime kicker Justin Tucker was a football decision, made before the NFL finished investigating misconduct allegations against him. A five-time All-Pro and one of the best kickers in NFL history, Tucker, 35, spent all 13 seasons with Baltimore. He’s now being released after a career-worst 2024 season. What do you think was the reason for the team’s move? Can’t see the poll? Click here to vote. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. Related Articles Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. Ravens draft kicker for first time amid Justin Tucker uncertainty NFL on investigation into Ravens’ Justin Tucker: ‘Won’t be giving updates’ Related Articles Mike Preston: The Ravens cut Justin Tucker. There are no winners. | COMMENTARY Ravens release Justin Tucker, calling it a ‘football decision,’ amid NFL investigation READER POLL: Will the Orioles have a winning record in May? Ravens roundtable: Grading draft, picking surprise rookies and more Ravens rookie Mike Green declines to discuss past sexual assault allegations View the full article

Justin Tucker’s career as a Raven has come to a stunning end. Baltimore released its longtime kicker on Monday, more than three months after more than a dozen female massage therapists accused Tucker of acting inappropriately at several Baltimore-area spas and wellness centers. The NFL’s investigation into the allegations against him remains under review, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy confirmed to The Baltimore Sun. “Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances. Considering our current roster, we have made the tough decision to release Justin Tucker,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement Monday. “Justin created many significant and unforgettable moments in Ravens history. His reliability, focus, drive, resilience and extraordinary talent made him one of the league’s best kickers for over a decade. We are grateful for Justin’s many contributions while playing for the Ravens. We sincerely wish him and his family the very best in this next chapter of their lives.” Tucker, 35, had been the Ravens’ kicker since 2012, was one of the faces of the franchise and has long been considered one of the greatest kickers in the history of the sport and a likely Pro Football Hall of Fame selection. He has denied the allegations, calling them “unequivocally false,” in a lengthy statement that he posted on X after the first Baltimore Banner report in which six massage therapists said he exposed his genitals, brushed two of them with his exposed penis and left what was believed to be ejaculate on the massage table following three of his treatments, among other disturbing details. The alleged incidents took place between 2012 and 2016, according to the report, and led to Tucker allegedly being banned from two spas, Ojas and Studio 921. A Ravens spokesperson said following the initial report that the organization was aware of the Baltimore Banner’s story and that it takes “any allegations of this nature seriously” and would continue to “monitor the situation.” But after the initial story and Tucker’s subsequent denial, several more women came forward days later with strikingly similar accounts in another Baltimore Banner report. In that story, one of the accusers provided the outlet with a letter she said she shared with her employer in 2015 that said Tucker “made it a point in previous sessions to expose his erect genitals to me by untucking the drapes, regardless of how many times I have to redrape him and tell him he is messing up the drapes.” She also accused Tucker of running his fingers “along my inner thigh” and leaving a “large spot of ejaculation on my bottom sheet” where his genitals had been and signed the letter, which was also signed by someone she said was her supervisor. The NFL previously said it takes “any allegation seriously” and that it was looking into the matter, though that process can take months. The league’s personal conduct policy for players states that even if a case does not “rise to the level of criminal charges, players are held to a higher standard and could still face punishment, including suspension.” It also states that players could face punishment for “assault and/or battery, including sexual assault or other sex offenses.” In 2022, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was suspended by the NFL for 11 games and fined $5 million after more than 20 women alleged that he committed sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions. Watson denied the allegations and reached confidential settlements with most of the accusers. That same year, Ravens coach John Harbaugh was asked about Watson’s suspension, which was initially two games and then six games before an agreement on a longer period, and praised the organization’s “zero tolerance” policy for domestic violence that was put in place after video emerged of running back Ray Rice punching his future wife in an elevator in 2014. “We stayed away from that particular situation when we drafted players and signed free agents,” Harbaugh said then. “That’s [owner] Steve [Bisciotti’s’] decision, and I’m glad we have that policy.” The Ravens released Rice in 2014 after the video emerged, but in 2018 kept cornerback Jimmy Smith after he was suspended for four games after the NFL found evidence of “threatening and emotionally abusive behaviors” toward a former girlfriend that also displayed “a pattern of improper conduct.” Last year, wide receiver Zay Flowers did not face discipline from the league or the team after a police investigation into an alleged incident was suspended without any charges and team president Sashi Brown said last March there had been “no change” in the franchise’s “philosophy” and “approach” with regards to the policy. As for Tucker, the five-time All-Pro, seven-time Pro Bowl selection and currently the most accurate kicker in NFL history (89.1%) was set to enter the second year of a four-year $24 million contract extension that he signed in August 2022. Related Articles READER POLL: Will the Orioles have a winning record in May? Ravens roundtable: Grading draft, picking surprise rookies and more Ravens rookie Mike Green declines to discuss past sexual assault allegations Ravens rookie OL Emery Jones Jr. to miss time with shoulder injury Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. A Texas native and undrafted free agent out of Texas in 2012, Tucker quickly became a prominent figure on the field and off it. He made the game-winning field goal in the team’s “Mile High Miracle” playoff victory over the Broncos in Denver as a rookie and hit a 38-yard field goal that proved to be the margin of victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl 47 that season. In 2021, he set an NFL record for the longest field goal with a 66-yarder as time expired to lift the Ravens to a 19-17 victory over the Detroit Lions. His 417 made field goals are also the most among active kickers and a franchise record, and his 1,775 points scored are also a franchise record and rank 16th all-time. Away from the game, he was omnipresent in the Baltimore area in advertisements for Royal Farms. The New York Times Magazine and “60 Minutes” profiled his operatic skills. He has talked about his faith and used his singing to raise funds for the Baltimore-based nonprofit Catholic Charities. But he also had his worst season in 2024, making a career-low 73.3% of his field goal attempts and missing two extra point attempts. Still, until the allegations surfaced, Baltimore had planned for Tucker to be its kicker next season. “I think he finished the season strong,” DeCosta said during the team’s season-ending news conference. “I think I have every expectation that Justin’s going to be a great kicker for us next year and moving forward.” This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Orioles did not have a good April. They were six games under .500 in the month, and after a 1-2 start to May, they are 13-20. Will the Orioles turn things around and have a winning month in May? We want to hear from you. After you vote, leave a comment and might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

After drafting 11 players and signing several more undrafted rookies in the hours and days following the three-day proceedings, the Ravens’ roster is starting to take shape. They have made other moves as well, most notably exercising the fifth-year option on safety Kyle Hamilton while declining center Tyler Linderbaum’s, primarily for financial reasons for now. Meanwhile, the fate of kicker Justin Tucker continues to linger with the NFL’s investigation into the numerous sexual misconduct allegations against the 35-year-old still ongoing and Baltimore drafting a kicker for the first time in the organization’s history. There are other questions as well. As rookie minicamp wraps up in Owings Mills, followed by voluntary organized team activities later this month and then mandatory minicamp in mid-June, Ravens reporter Brian Wacker, columnist Mike Preston, reporter Sam Cohn and editor C.J. Doon discuss how the Ravens fared in the draft, which rookie will have the biggest impact in 2025, who could surprise and more. What grade do you give the Ravens for their draft and why? Wacker: B+. The first-round pick of Georgia safety Malaki Starks was a no-brainer. Many teams had him as the top safety in the class, and his addition means the Ravens will be able to utilize fellow safety Hamilton in myriad ways, which should help stabilize if not turn the secondary into one of the best in the NFL again, much the way it was two seasons ago. From a pure football standpoint, Marshall edge rusher Mike Green was also a steal late in the second round — he’ll impact the pass rush immediately. The biggest question about him, of course, are the two previous sexual assault allegations against him. Ravens brass says it’s comfortable with its due diligence on him, however, and if that plays out accordingly and there are no off-the-field issues, alleged or otherwise, in the future, then the decision to take him when some teams took him off their board entirely could have them looking even smarter. Preston: To be fair, it wouldn’t make sense to provide a grade because it takes three, four and sometimes five years for a draft class to succeed. But the Ravens have been one of the best drafting teams in the NFL since moving to Baltimore for the start of the 1996 season, and that sums it up the best. I like the first three picks and believe Starks will contribute right away, as will Green, though he will be used sparingly, mostly in pass-rushing situations. As for LSU offensive tackle Emery Jones Jr., a third-round pick, he won’t start immediately but can become a nice “stop gap” player at either guard or tackle. Cohn: On paper and on the field, A-. Starks has all the makings of being an immediate contributor and a sky-high football IQ to a primary position of need. Green was a gamble considering his two previous sexual assault allegations, both of which he denied. From a football standpoint, he could be the biggest steal of the draft, but it’s disingenuous to focus solely on football with Green right now. The Ravens grabbed the best kicker in the draft, in light of the Tucker investigation; they addressed interior offensive lineman concerns on days two and three; and those who spent all season grinding tape postulate that fourth-round linebacker Teddye Buchanan and sixth-round defensive lineman Aeneas Peebles might both bring more to the table than their draft capital suggests. That’s because Buchanan was a late bloomer and Peebles surprised some scouts with his performance at the Senior Bowl. Doon: B. It’s hard to assign an overall grade with the pick of Green, who was a top-15 talent but was available at the end of the second round because of off-the-field concerns. On paper, it’s tremendous value. But the Ravens have to be confident in their evaluation of his background and character to make that commitment. If Starks is as good as the Ravens think he is, assigning him the coveted “red star” during their scouting process and being blown away by his football acumen, he’s the perfect option to help solidify the secondary. Related Articles Ravens rookie Mike Green declines to discuss past sexual assault allegations Ravens rookie OL Emery Jones Jr. to miss time with shoulder injury Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. Ravens TE Isaiah Likely to host charity softball game at Ripken Stadium Ravens bolster offensive line by adding veteran free agent After the top two picks, it gets a little more interesting. By Arif Hasan’s consensus rankings, which compile the evaluations of 112 draft analysts, the Ravens “reached” for OT Jones (91 overall pick vs. 98 ranking), LB Buchanan (129 vs. 177), OT Carson Vinson (141 vs. 205), CB Bilhal Kone (178 vs. 188), WR LaJohntay Wester (203 vs. 279) and CB Robert Longerbeam (212 vs. 228). Baltimore’s track record suggests that it can evaluate players better than almost any other organization, but it was surprising to see a team that usually waits for top talent to fall be a little more aggressive with its selections. Choosing to wait until the sixth round to draft an interior defensive lineman — one under 300 pounds at that — was also a bit of a head-scratcher. Which rookie will have the biggest impact in 2025? Wacker: Green has perhaps the most upside because sacks are a glamorous and tangible statistic. After leading college football with 17 sacks and a high pressure rate last season to go with a solid bag of moves, it’s possible that he becomes something of a tour de force. But I still expect Starks to have the biggest impact and would not be surprised if he is starting alongside Hamilton with Ar’Darius Washington as the third man in the rotation pretty quickly. Preston: It will be Starks. Besides quarterback, the unwritten rule in the NFL is that all first-round players have to play right away. Starks should allow the team to put Hamilton near the line of scrimmage again, and that’s where Hamilton becomes an impact player. He is an outstanding tackler, which makes him a threat against the running game and one of the team’s best pass rushers, especially when going against a running back one-on-one. Hamilton has really quick and strong hands. As for Starks, he can play on the back end, and the Ravens won’t be as concerned as a year ago when they had one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. Combined with No. 3 safety Washington, the Ravens can give opposing teams multiple looks and can put either of the three safeties over a lost receiver. Cohn: Starks and Green are probably the most likely answers. The former gives Zach Orr space to get creative with his secondary and the latter brings an NFL-ready deep bag of pass rush tricks. To zag slightly, I’ll say kicker Tyler Loop. If he’s the Week 1 starter, he’ll be, by nature, in a constant position to impact this team — for better or worse. Special teams coach Randy Brown canvassed the country seeking Tucker’s potential replacement. He got back to Baltimore and said, “Hey, Eric [DeCosta]. There’s one guy that I really covet. And it’s Loop.” Doon: It has to be either Starks or Green. If there were two things the Ravens desperately needed, it was another reliable player in the secondary to wash the taste of Marcus Williams, Eddie Jackson and Brandon Stephens out of their mouths and a pass rusher that could reliably win one-on-one matchups. Consider those boxes checked. I also wouldn’t rule out Jones beating out Andrew Vorhees for the starting left guard spot in training camp, so he has to be mentioned as well. Colorado wide receiver LaJohntay Wester could be a surprise contributor for the Ravens as a Day 3 draft pick. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) What Day 3 draft pick is worth keeping an eye on? Wacker: The easy answer is Loop if the Ravens decide to part ways with Tucker. Leaving that uncertainty aside, Wester, a sixth-round receiver out of Colorado, could be interesting. He’s small (5-foot-10, 163 pounds) but has nice change-of-direction ability to go with good speed. Importantly, he also has extensive punt return experience and looks natural in the role, something that was missing from the Ravens last season and has been a point of emphasis by coach John Harbaugh in the offseason. Preston: The assumption here is Wester, one of the team’s five sixth-round picks. For the past two years, the Ravens’ returners have had problems being indecisive about when to return punts. Wester could ease that concern. He probably won’t get much playing time as a receiver, but in 2023, he averaged 19.9 yards on 14 returns with Florida Atlantic and averaged 12 yards on nine returns with Colorado last year. He might end up the No. 1 returner, but at least the team has options. Cohn: Wester. Don’t expect him to see any significant reps at receiver, barring an injury. But the Ravens shuffled around their returners, which is always a position at the front of Harbaugh’s mind. Wester had a pair of punt returns for touchdowns at Colorado, he’s slippery with the ball in his hands and needs only a sliver of daylight to show off that 4.46-second 40-yard dash time. He has a chance to contend for a regular returner role in 2025. Doon: I’ll cheat a little bit and say both Kone and Longerbeam. The Ravens need to find a long-term answer to pair with cornerback Nate Wiggins on the outside, and the jury is still out on either T.J. Tampa or Jalyn Armour-Davis becoming that player. Chidobe Awuzie was a smart veteran signing, but he’s likely just a one-year rental. The 6-1, 190-pound Kone has good size and speed and a willingness to be physical in run support, while the 5-11, 175-pound Longerbeam has intriguing athletic traits after running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and finishing tied among corners at the combine for the second-quickest 10-yard split. I think one of those two could sneak into the rotation by the end of the regular season. Don’t sleep on Dellinger getting in the mix in the guard battle, either. Were you surprised tight end Mark Andrews was not traded? Wacker: In short, no. The only way I saw him possibly getting dealt was if some tight end-desperate team who missed out on drafting Tyler Warren or Colston Loveland made an offer that included a second- or third-round pick. And if it was the latter, I’m still not sure that would have been enough. Andrews is an integral part of the offense and part of the heartbeat of the team, so to trade him away from a Super Bowl-caliber roster for a pick on a player who is more of an unknown doesn’t make any sense. Plus, why would a team get desperate when it’s possible he could be available in free agency next offseason? Preston: No. The Ravens dangled him around as trade bait, and there were no takers. As I’ve said before, Andrews was one of the hardest workers on and off the field in Baltimore’s brief history, and the Ravens weren’t going to get rid of the 29-year-old unless they got good compensation. Overall, he deserved better than to leave an organization where he has been an integral part since being drafted in the third round of 2018, but the NFL is all about business first and foremost. With young players like tight ends Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar competing with Andrews for more playing time, it made sense for the Ravens to put Andrews’ name out there as possible trade material. Tight end Mark Andrews is the Ravens' all-time touchdowns leader. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Cohn: Not necessarily. As my brilliant colleagues all mentioned, it would’ve taken a desperate team in the right conditions. Recency bias will have folks only remembering his fumble and nail-in-the-coffin goal line drop in Buffalo. Even if his numbers dipped slightly in 2024, he’s still the lifeblood of the locker room. Better to have a generally reliable future Ring of Honor tight end in a lesser role than a question mark. Doon: Mildly so. As Brian said, the cards had to fall a certain way for a team (looking at you, Los Angeles Chargers) to feel compelled enough to give up a decent draft pick. Even if the Ravens don’t feel confident in Andrews being a reliable part of their offense beyond this season, he’ll likely fetch a compensatory pick if he signs elsewhere next offseason. I just thought that Andrews was expendable given his general lack of production and brutal playoff mistakes last year. Not to mention, this is a front office that is very forward-thinking and loves extra picks. While Likely is an ascending player who could step into Andrews’ role, it’s hard to put a price tag on Lamar Jackson’s comfort and chemistry with his favorite tight end. What area does Baltimore still need to address and get better in? Wacker: General manager Eric DeCosta said it himself: A big-body, run-stuffing defensive tackle. The lone defensive lineman Baltimore drafted (Peebles) is undersized for the position, so the veteran free agent market will be the next best option. The same could be said of depth pieces on the offensive line. Third-round tackle Jones helps on the right side behind Roger Rosengarten or possibly at guard, but fifth-round pick Vinson is a project who likely wouldn’t be ready if left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who has a long injury history, were to be sidelined for any length of time. Baltimore was the healthiest team in the NFL by a long way last season, but if any of the starting offensive linemen were to go down, there would be an immediate step back. That’s why the Ravens signed former Los Angeles Rams tackle Joe Noteboom on Saturday. Preston: The most glaring need is finding one or two defensive linemen, especially a big-bodied run stopper. The Ravens will look into free agency to fill those voids. They also need to find a starting weakside linebacker, even though Trenton Simpson is in the mix. He lost the top job midway through last season. The Ravens could use a cornerback to start opposite Nate Wiggins, and that would give them a surplus of players on the back end. Baltimore made a smart move by adding Noteboom, 29, but bringing in another veteran guard would add depth. Cohn: DeCosta was asked about his defensive-heavy draft. In his response, DeCosta said they were still missing “that big, wide-body-type guy” along the defensive line. It’s something we can reasonably expect the Ravens to address this summer, hoping to backfill the since-retired Michael Pierce with “street free agents.” The Ravens filled in at just about every other corner of the defense. Defensive line would be the one void. I’d add in linebacker, considering the uncertainty beside Roquan Smith. Simpson had a down year and there’s a chance Buchanan puts up a fight, but it’s an uncertainty worth monitoring as training camp approaches. Doon: With Pierce retiring, the Ravens have a 355-pound hole in the middle of the defensive line. Peebles is an intriguing player after standing out at the Senior Bowl, but he wins with quickness more than raw strength and isn’t a true nose tackle. So I’d be pretty surprised if a veteran run-stuffer isn’t brought in between now and the end of training camp. Linebacker is another spot that could use some depth after the Ravens signed special teamer Jake Hummel and drafted Buchanan. And while DeAndre Hopkins might still have something left in the tank, the offense suffered in the postseason without a healthy Zay Flowers. Another injury there could leave Baltimore perilously thin at pass catcher. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

Ravens rookie edge rusher Mike Green said Sunday that it meant “a lot” to him that Baltimore selected him in the second round of last weekend’s NFL draft. He cited the organization’s “culture” and past defensive legends Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs and called landing with the team a “blessing in disguise.” The former Marshall standout, whom many projected to be a top-15 pick based on talent alone, also said it was difficult to have to wait until the second day of the draft to be chosen. “Of course it’s tough, just knowing that you have first-round potential and just knowing that, regardless what team you was going to go to, you just wanted a chance to go in the first round,” he said Sunday at the team’s rookie minicamp, his first comments to reporters since Baltimore selected him 59th overall just over a week ago. “That was a goal that I set for myself. Didn’t really get to get that goal, but coming to the Ravens was a blessing in disguise.” The reason that Green fell so far, however, is because of two previous sexual assault allegations against him. At the NFL scouting combine in February, Green said one accusation stemmed from high school and the other was from an “anonymous report” at the University of Virginia. He was suspended by the Cavaliers in 2022, he said, before he transferred to Marshall before the 2023 season. Green, who was not charged, denied the allegations at the combine and said he did “nothing wrong.” Asked again about those allegations on Sunday, he declined to elaborate on them. “I’m just focused right now on moving forward with my career at the Ravens,” he said. “I’m blessed to be here. It’s an honor, and I’m glad to see what the future might hold for me.” The past, of course, is a big reason why he ended up with the Ravens. Last week, NFL Network reported that several teams had taken Green off their draft boards entirely after his explanation for the allegations was “not satisfactory.” But Baltimore general manager Eric DeCosta said he was “comfortable” with taking Green after meeting with him for 90 minutes during a predraft visit, and the organization did its due diligence on him. Ravens rookie edge rusher Mike Green practices during rookie minicamp on Sunday. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Ravens rookie Mike Green spoke to local media for the first time on Sunday. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)A tattoo on Ravens rookie Mike Green reads “Stay Humble, Hustle Hard.” (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Show Caption1 of 3Ravens rookie edge rusher Mike Green practices during rookie minicamp on Sunday. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Expand “I would say that we investigated this situation very thoroughly,” DeCosta said after the second day of the draft. “We think he’s a talented player. We understand the severity of what these allegations were, of course, but doing our due diligence, we are comfortable with Mike. “I think the best is yet to come with him.” Related Articles Ravens rookie OL Emery Jones Jr. to miss time with shoulder injury Is Justin Tucker’s time with Ravens nearing an end? Coach John Harbaugh provides insight. Ravens TE Isaiah Likely to host charity softball game at Ripken Stadium Ravens bolster offensive line by adding veteran free agent Baltimore County man sues ex-Ravens star over alleged affair with his wife Green echoed similar sentiments. He also said that every team he met with asked him about the allegations and that he was “completely open” about everything. On the field, there have been few questions about Green’s ability. He led the country in sacks (17) last season and fulfills a need for the Ravens, with outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy having just turned 34, Odafe Oweh in the final year of his contract after a career-high 10 sacks last season and little proven depth behind them. Off it, Green said he has taken advantage of resources that helped him with the “mental aspect” as well, though he again did not share any details of the sexual assault allegations. “I got through it,” Green said, “and this point forward, I’m just focused on moving on with my career with the Ravens.” Have a news tip? Contact Bri”an Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Third-round draft pick Emery Jones Jr. was a limited participant on the first day of Ravens rookie minicamp because of a labrum injury in his shoulder. He was seen off to the side, going through individual drills without a helmet. The offensive tackle out of LSU might be out until training camp in July, coach John Harbaugh said. Jones will not fully practice “in the immediate future,” but the coach did not rule out Jones returning for mandatory minicamp next month. “I don’t think we’ll push it,” Harbaugh said. “If he can do it, we’ll do it. But I’m not thinking about pushing it.” Because of the injury, Jones was the only rookie who did not speak with local reporters on Sunday. He was also not made available the night he was drafted. On his phone call with general manager Eric DeCosta before Baltimore picked him, Jones said he would put it all on the line for the “honor” of blocking for two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson. Jones, at 6-foot-5 and 315 pounds, is someone the Ravens view as a swing tackle. He played nearly every snap of his college career at right tackle. But there’s an easier path to early playing time in a three-point stance at guard, where scouts saw him practice ahead of the Senior Bowl. “[We’ll] just get a feel for him once he starts practicing, get a feel for where he can help us,” Harbaugh said after the second day of the draft last weekend. “We think he can play guard and tackle.” LSU coaches wanted to try Jones more at guard but felt he was too valuable at tackle opposite Will Campbell, the fifth pick by the New England Patriots. In Baltimore, with Patrick Mekari signing with Jacksonville and Josh Jones now in Seattle, Jones could compete with Andrew Voorhees to start at left guard. DeCosta admitted that he had to sweat out that third round. The Ravens’ draft room was eyeing Jones at No. 91. He didn’t want to trade up but felt the sweat pool on his forehead as other offensive linemen came off the board earlier in the round. Jones isn’t the only new swing tackle in Baltimore. On Saturday, the Ravens made official a one-year deal with 29-year-old free agent, Joseph Noteboom. Most of his career has been spent at left tackle, but Noteboom’s resume has a healthy mix of left guard. He’s played four of five positions among the offensive line across seven years with the Los Angeles Rams. “He’s in Baltimore now, so maybe we get five out of five,” Harbaugh joked. “To get Joseph Noteboom in here — veteran, played, talented guy, played both sides — really to focus probably as a swing tackle as much as anything for us. That’s kind of where we really need that veteran presence, as a swing tackle.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Ravens kicker Justin Tucker has continued to work out at the team’s facility in Owings Mills the past couple of weeks, coach John Harbaugh said Sunday at rookie minicamp. Whether that continues remains to be seen. While the NFL’s investigation into the voluminous sexual misconduct allegations by several massage therapists against Tucker continues, Harbaugh was asked about the potential awkward dynamic that would likely exist should Tucker and rookie kicker Tyler Loop both be on the field when the team gathers for voluntary organized team activities at the end of the month. “From the standpoint of the investigation, we don’t know anything,” Harbaugh said. “So you can’t make any decisions based on that. Every decision we make has to be based on football. There’s a lot of layers to that.” Tucker, 35, is the team’s longest-tenured player after signing with Baltimore as an undrafted free agent in 2012. He’s also the most accurate kicker in NFL history, holds the league record for longest field goal made (66 yards) and is the leading scorer in the organization’s history. The Ravens had never drafted a kicker before using a sixth-round pick last weekend to take Loop out of Arizona. It was a move Baltimore viewed as necessary given the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the investigation and the possibility of Tucker being suspended. Tucker is also coming off the worst year of his career, having made just 73% of his field goals last season. Sunday marked the first time that Loop had a chance to show off his leg to local reporters in practice. He was also joined by former Wyoming kicker John Hoyland, who received an invite to the Ravens’ and Denver Broncos’ rookie minicamps. Both kickers missed some field goal attempts during the nearly two-hour practice, but each has an impressive collegiate resume. Loop was an All-Big 12 honorable mention selection last season after converting 18 of 23 field goal attempts and setting a school record with a 62-yard field goal against Houston. For his career, he made 67 of 80 field goals (83.75%) to finish with the highest field goal percentage in school history. He was also the top kicker on senior special teams coach Randy Brown’s draft board. Related Articles Ravens rookie OL Emery Jones Jr. to miss time with shoulder injury Ravens TE Isaiah Likely to host charity softball game at Ripken Stadium Ravens bolster offensive line by adding veteran free agent Baltimore County man sues ex-Ravens star over alleged affair with his wife Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Is it a strong draft class? | COMMENTARY “It was good to see it,” Harbaugh said of Loop’s leg. “It was good to hear it. The way the ball comes off his foot is impressive.” Hoyland was an honorable mention All-Mountain West pick for the Cowboys last season after converting on 15 of 19 field goals, which included making 14 of 15 from inside 50 yards. His season-long was from 54 yards against Boise State, and he finished his career with a school-record 366 career points. As for Tucker? The Ravens’ first voluntary OTAs will take place May 27-29, so it’s possible the team could make a decision by then. If they release Tucker, they’d almost certainly do so with a post-June 1 designation, which would save $4.2 million in salary cap space. “All the different things that you take into consideration, whatever we decide to do in the next few weeks will be based on football,” Harbaugh said. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. The Ravens last weekend used a draft pick on a kicker — Tyler Loop — for the first time. (Charlie Riedel/AP file) View the full article

The Ravens are coming to Aberdeen to play ball. Softball that is. The “Isaiah Likely Softball Slam” will be held June 1 at Leidos Field at Ripken Stadium to benefit Special Olympics Maryland. The game will feature a showdown between the Ravens’ offensive and defensive players and include TV and radio personalities from WBAL-TV, 98 Rock, and WBAL NewsRadio. It’s not yet clear which players are participating. Tickets, ranging from $15 to $80 for autograph alley rows, are on sale via the Aberdeen IronBirds website and box office, with limited VIP tickets also available. “I am very excited to launch this charity softball game as it is a great opportunity to spend time with my teammates, while also raising money for Special Olympics Maryland,” Likely said in a news release. “Ravens fans are the best fans in the NFL, and I know we will enjoy another opportunity to interact with them, have some fun on the softball field and raise important funds. It will be an awesome summer day.” Likely, a 2022 fourth-round draft pick out of Coastal Carolina, is entering his fourth season with the Ravens. He’s recorded 108 catches for 1,261 yards in 49 games, including a career-high 42 receptions for 477 yards and six touchdowns last season. Ripken Stadium is the current home of the IronBirds, the High-A minor league affiliate of the Orioles, although questions remain about the future of the franchise in Harford County. In October, Cal Ripken Jr. and his brother, Billy, sold their majority stake of the team to Attain Sports. The club and the City of Aberdeen have been sparring over revenue. Unrivaled Sports, co-founded by Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris, owns Ripken Baseball and would be interested in expanding a new multi-purpose development for the stadium site, including additional athletic fields, a hotel, retail space and a parking garage. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. Related Articles Ravens bolster offensive line by adding veteran free agent Baltimore County man sues ex-Ravens star over alleged affair with his wife Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Is it a strong draft class? | COMMENTARY Ravens will get new alternate uniforms, but it’ll be a long wait READERS RESPOND: Here’s how fans graded the Ravens’ draft View the full article

The Ravens continued to add depth to their offensive line on Saturday. Veteran offensive tackle Joseph Noteboom agreed on a contract with Baltimore, the team announced. Terms were not disclosed. Noteboom, 29, was a third-round draft pick of the Los Angeles Rams in 2018 and appeared in 71 games (35 starts) during that span. The 6-foot-5, 300-pound lineman has also been injury prone. Named a starter at left guard in 2019 after spending his rookie season as a backup, Noteboom tore his ACL and MCL in Week 6 and missed the rest of the year. The following season, he was limited to 10 games because of a calf injury. In 2021, he appeared in all 17 regular-season games. He also won a Super Bowl, with the Rams defeating the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium. Noteboom then signed a three-year, $40 million extension and started at left tackle after Andrew Whitworth retired but suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Week 6, again ending his season. He returned for 14 games in 2023 but last season was limited to four games after suffering an ankle injury in Week 1. Noteboom has also been inconsistent with his pass blocking the past few seasons, giving up 11 sacks, per Pro Football Focus, since 2022 after allowing just one in a full season in 2021. He does, however, provide versatility, with 1,234 career snaps at left tackle, 494 at left guard, 444 at right tackle and 180 at right guard. His addition fills a need as well. Versatile left guard Patrick Mekari, who played all five positions during his tenure with Baltimore, signed a three-year, $37.5 million free agent deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason, while reserve tackle Josh Jones signed a one-year, $4.8 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks. The Ravens also added three offensive lineman through the draft, using a third-round pick on tackle Emery Jones Jr., who could also potentially play guard, a fifth-round pick on developmental tackle Carson Vinson and a seventh-round pick on guard Garrett Dellinger. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Baltimore County man sues ex-Ravens star over alleged affair with his wife Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Is it a strong draft class? | COMMENTARY Ravens will get new alternate uniforms, but it’ll be a long wait READERS RESPOND: Here’s how fans graded the Ravens’ draft Ravens’ Malaki Starks wows former pros: ‘Smartest young guy I ever met’ View the full article

A Baltimore County man is suing former Ravens wide receiver and NFL Network analyst Steve Smith Sr. for allegedly having an affair with his wife. In the suit, reported by the Charlotte Observer and filed in Mecklenburg Superior Court in North Carolina on Monday, Antonio Martinez accused Smith of having an affair with his wife, Nicole Martinez, a member of Baltimore’s Marching Ravens, between October 2024 and February 2025. Martinez filed the suit under North Carolina’s “alienation of affection act,” also known as a “homewrecker law,” that enables a spouse to sue someone who breaks up their marriage. He is seeking $100,000 in damages from Smith, a five-time Pro Bowl selection who spent the first 13 seasons of his career with the Carolina Panthers. Only six states have homewrecker laws on the books, including Hawaii, New Mexico and North Carolina. Smith first met Martinez’s wife when he visited Baltimore in September 2024 to film a segment of his show “NFL’s Most Interesting Jobs,” in which he joined the Marching Ravens during a game, according to the suit. Martinez wrote that while filming the segment, Smith arranged for an NFL agent to give his phone number to Martinez’s wife. Over the next six months, Martinez says that Smith and his wife kept in close contact, calling and exchanging sexual messages, and meeting in person on one occasion. After his wife confessed to the affair, Martinez says he confronted Smith over the phone, asking him what he had to say for himself, to which Smith responded, “I’m sorry.” Martinez filed for divorce from his wife in Baltimore County in February. Have a news tip? Contact Mathew Schumer at mschumer@baltsun.com, 443-890-7423 and on X as @mmmschumer. View the full article

Baltimore Sun columnist Mike Preston will answer fans’ questions throughout the Ravens’ offseason. Here’s Preston’s take on a handful of questions from readers: (Editor’s note: Questions have been edited for length and clarity.) What is your overall assessment of the Ravens’ 2025 draft? Good? Bad? I know it will take several years to know for sure. — Bob in NC When I first got into this business almost 40 years ago, I thought it was a great thing to give out a report card grade, especially if a team filled every major need. I was wrong. After being around a team like the Ravens for so long, it really takes three to four years, sometimes even a fifth to provide an accurate assessment. With that said, I like the first three picks. Malaki Starks, the first round safety out of Georgia, was a great selection and he can only help one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL a year ago get better. The Ravens gambled selecting edge rusher Mike Green out of Marshall in the second round, but that happens, especially for a team that might be a player or two away from participating in the Super Bowl. I love him teaming up with Chuck Smith, the team’s pass rushing coach. With his ability and motor combined with Smith’s knowledge, Green could become special. LSU offensive tackle Emery Jones Jr. was a third-round pick, and he will add depth to an offensive line that needs help. As for the others, or the eight other picks, they are more fill-ins and special teams players. That’s not an insult, but actually a compliment to a team which has good overall talent. As usual, there are some projects like offensive linemen Garrett Dellinger (seventh round, LSU), Carson Vinson (fifth round, Alabama A&M), and cornerback Bilhal Kone (sixth round, Western Michigan), but there might be some players who can help right away like linebacker Teddye Buchanan (fourth round, California), receiver LaJohntay Wester (sixth round, Colorado) and placekicker Tyler Loop (sixth round, Arizona). To be fair, it wouldn’t make sense to provide a grade but the Ravens have been one of the best drafting teams in the NFL since moving to Baltimore for the start of the 1996 season. That pretty much says it all. What do you think is the reason for the dramatic drop of Shedeur Sanders in the draft? — Bob in NC I’m not privy to all the information that goes to all the front office personnel of the 32 NFL teams, but it seems consistent from all published reports that Sanders might have overplayed his hand as far as arrogance in dealing with top executives. That’s pretty consistent with the attitude his father displayed for years when he was the best cornerback in the NFL. Related Articles Ravens will get new alternate uniforms, but it’ll be a long wait READERS RESPOND: Here’s how fans graded the Ravens’ draft Ravens’ Malaki Starks wows former pros: ‘Smartest young guy I ever met’ Mike Preston: Ravens still need help in the trenches | COMMENTARY Ravens make fifth-year option decisions on Kyle Hamilton, Tyler Linderbaum I covered Deion Sanders when he played for the Ravens during the 2004-2005 season. I think he is a good guy and reminds me of former Ravens Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis. They are pretty reserved, but once that red light goes on from the TV cameras, they change. This is just an assumption, but when you’re Deion Sanders and Ray Lewis, they could back it up. I’ve never put Shedeur in that class, and few players seldom are. Maybe this entire falling in the draft episode humbled him and I’m sure it will serve as motivation. I wish the kid well. There’s the incumbent Trenton Simpson, and this offseason the Ravens signed Jake Hummel and drafted Teddye Buchanan along with signing UDFAs like Jay Higgins. Do you think one of those linebackers will be lining up next to Roquan Smith in the opening game of the season, or do you expect a veteran to still be added at some point in summer? — Paul in Orlando Paul, the Ravens will do whatever is necessary. They’ll bring in a couple of veterans or street free agents to compete in training camp, and if they can’t find a capable running mate for Smith, they’ll make a trade a game or two into the preseason. With Green, they added some fresh legs and blood at outside linebacker, and Simpson might be able to fill the void now after playing poorly early last season. But the Ravens will find a capable player. It’s a weak link on defense and they also need to find a cornerback to start opposite of second-year player Nate Wiggins. Overall, this team is in pretty good shape. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Fans clamoring for a new Ravens uniform can mark their calendars. Nike and the NFL announced a uniform and fan gear program called “Rivalries” that will debut this season. The uniforms will be worn during a single home game against a division rival and will be included in the team’s lineup for three years after introduction. The program is similar to the concept of “City Connect” uniforms in MLB, with “designs rooted extensively in local community insights,” the NFL said in a news release. The first wave begins in 2025 with teams from the AFC East (Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots and New York Jets) and NFC West (Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks). Teams from the AFC South and NFC North will debut their Rivalries uniforms in 2026, followed by NFC East and AFC West teams in 2027 and teams from the AFC North and NFC South in 2028. So Baltimore, along with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals, will be one of the last teams to join the party. Last year, the Ravens debuted their “Purple Rising” alternate uniforms and helmet, which they wore for a home “Thursday Night Football” game against the Bengals. The team plans to wear those again at some point this upcoming season, likely during another home prime-time game. The 2025 NFL schedule will be unveiled on May 14. “Players were excited about them, fans loved it and we won, which also matters when you roll these things out,” said team president Sashi Brown, who noted at the league’s owners meetings last month that Baltimore’s regular home and away jerseys will not be changing anytime soon. “We feel like we have really classic jerseys, and I think the team did a great job when we’ve had some minor modifications,” Brown said. “We’re really cautious about making changes, something that we think really works well.” Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. Related Articles READERS RESPOND: Here’s how fans graded the Ravens’ draft Ravens’ Malaki Starks wows former pros: ‘Smartest young guy I ever met’ Mike Preston: Ravens still need help in the trenches | COMMENTARY Ravens make fifth-year option decisions on Kyle Hamilton, Tyler Linderbaum Way-too-early look at Ravens depth chart following 2025 draft View the full article