New York Jets Test Justin Tucker Despite Suspension
The New York Jets have given veteran kicker Justin Tucker another opportunity to return to the NFL. The team invited the eight-time All-Pro kicker for a workout on Wednesday as it continues to search for a reliable player at the position before Week 1.
Tucker, 36, is currently a free agent and has not played in an NFL game since the 2024 season. The workout gives him a chance to show the Jets that he can still perform at a high level and compete for a place on the team.
For many years, Tucker was considered one of the best kickers in the NFL. During his time with the Baltimore Ravens, he earned All-Pro honors from 2016 through 2022. He became known for his accuracy, strong leg, and ability to make important kicks under pressure.
However, Tucker’s recent career has been more difficult. His performance dropped during the 2024 season, when he made only 73% of his field-goal attempts. That placed him near the bottom of the league among kickers that season.
Tucker has also faced serious off-field issues. In early 2025, several massage therapists accused him of inappropriate behavior during massage sessions. Tucker denied the allegations and described the claims as false and hurtful.
The NFL later suspended Tucker for the first 10 games of the 2025 season. After his suspension, he remained available as a free agent and received workout opportunities from other teams.
Tucker worked out for the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts, but neither team signed him. His workout with the Jets could now provide another chance to return to professional football.
The Jets are not depending only on Tucker. The team is considering several options as it tries to find the right kicker before the regular season begins.
New York recently added Blake Grupe after claiming him off waivers. The team also placed Jason Sanders on the practice squad. These moves show that the Jets are still evaluating their options and have not yet made a final decision about their starting kicker.
For Tucker, the workout is an important opportunity. He will need to show that he can still kick accurately and consistently after spending significant time away from NFL games.
The Jets will also have to consider more than just Tucker’s past success. His recent performance, current fitness, consistency, and ability to handle pressure will all be important factors in the team’s decision.
Tucker’s long NFL career gives him plenty of experience, but the competition for the Jets’ kicking job is still open. The team is expected to evaluate all of its options before deciding who will handle kicking duties in Week 1.
If Tucker can impress the Jets during his workout, he could get another opportunity to continue his NFL career. For now, however, the team appears determined to carefully compare its available kickers before making a final choice.