Ravens’ Justin Tucker sets new NFL record against Eagles

Baltimore Ravens placekicker Justin Tucker made NFL history in Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles. In his 13 years with Baltimore, the veteran has established himself as one of the greats at his position. Among his accolades, Tucker has made eight All-Pro teams and seven Pro Bowls. Additionally, he holds the record for the longest kick in NFL history at 66 yards and is second all-time in field goal percentage.

Add another accomplishment to that Hall of Fame resume. According to Baltimore Ravens freelance reporter Kyle Phoenix, Tucker’s 34-yard field goal in the first quarter was his 1,744-point total, the most ever by a player in his first 13 seasons.

Justin Tucker experienced a breakthrough in his extraordinary career this year

Regardless of what happens in the future, it’s fair to say that Justin Tucker is the greatest placekicker in NFL history. Tucker, an undrafted free agent for Texas, was a guarantee of consistency at the position and had many iconic moments. He is also the only player still on the roster from the 2012 Super Bowl team. Tucker was a rookie this season and made 90% of his kicks in the regular season and 100% in the postseason during this legendary run.

2024 was the first year in which the veteran saw a noticeable decline in production. Entering Week 13, Tucker ranks 37th in the league in field goal percentage and 27th in extra point percentage at 73.9%. The struggles have led to speculation among fans about Tucker’s loss of form this year. Given how narrow the gaps are in the league, this trend is definitely a concern for the Ravens.

With this slide, Justin Tucker is no longer the most accurate kicker in NFL history. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has had the veteran’s back all week. At this point, Tucker deserves the benefit of the doubt. Although this year is by far his worst, he has shown throughout his career that he has the ability to bounce back. In 2015, Tucker made just 82.5% of his kicks, ranking 22nd overall in the league. In 2016, the then-five-year-old kicker hit 97.4% of his field goals, leading the entire NFL with more than five percent accuracy.

The Ravens are in a crucial part of their schedule as they look to keep pace with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFC North. Baltimore is led by two MVP candidates in quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry. Jackson is at a critical moment in his career where he can establish himself as the greatest Ravens quarterback of all time. The only thing the two-time MVP is missing is a Super Bowl ring – something Tucker can help get should the all-time star return to his legendary form.