Tucker's Uncharacteristic Struggles: A Mechanical Dilemma?
Justin Tucker has long been celebrated as one of the most accurate kickers in the history of the NFL, with a sterling career average conversion rate of 90.5% prior to 2023. Yet, recent performances have raised eyebrows and questions about the mechanics underlying his usual precision.
In a surprising turn of events during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Tucker missed three field goals and an extra point, a rare and disconcerting occurrence for the veteran kicker. Such off days are unusual for a player whose consistency has been a hallmark of his career.
A Season of Ups and Downs
In 2023, Tucker displayed his typical reliability in certain aspects, making all 20 of his field goal attempts inside 40 yards and achieving an impressive success rate of 11 out of 12 for kicks between 40 and 49 yards. His prowess was further evident in his nearly perfect extra point conversion, hitting 51 of 52 attempts.
However, Tucker faced challenges with longer kicks, succeeding in only one of his five attempts from 50 yards or more. Such a discrepancy in performance has been noted and hasn’t gone unnoticed by analysts and fans alike.
In the current season's first seven weeks, Tucker maintained his precision, making all 26 of his extra points and 12 of 15 field goals. Yet, since Week 8, his form has faltered, converting only seven of 12 field goals and missing from distances of 50, 47, 50, 47, and 53 yards—the hallmark yardage for a kicker of his caliber.
Analyzing the Dip
Patriots’ head coach Bill Belichick offered his thoughts on Tucker’s recent struggles. “Obviously there's something that's a little bit off from a technique standpoint,” Belichick remarked. “But I don't see that there's like a lack of talent. I think there's something mechanically that he's not doing consistently. If you have the key to unlock that problem, then probably everything could be great.”
These words resonate with many who believe that Tucker's issues may not stem from a decline in talent but rather a technical hitch, impacting his usually dependable execution.
Last year also saw fluctuations in Tucker’s performance, suggesting a lingering issue. “Clearly this extends back even to last year a little bit, too, because there were some accuracy issues last year in the '23 season as well as the current season,” Belichick added. “So I think Coach Harbaugh is doing the right thing. I would stick with Justin Tucker. This guy was the most accurate kicker in the history of football…”
Responding to Adversity
Despite the recent downturn, there is confidence in Tucker's ability to rectify his technique and return to peak form. The Ravens, led by Coach John Harbaugh, remain supportive, acknowledging his long-standing contributions and potential for recovery.
Tucker’s post-Week 13 performance in the previous season saw him make all 21 extra points and 15 field goals, signaling the possibility of a swift bounce-back once adjustments are made. The consistent performance following the team’s bye week may offer hope that a similar resurgence is imminent.
Belichick’s insights underscore the belief in Tucker’s talent and the temporary nature of his struggles. “He's been super consistent. He's obviously having a little bit of a rough patch right here, but it doesn't look to me like his talent level has declined. There's something mechanically that just isn't quite right all the time. I think they just gotta work hard and try to find that.”
Looking Ahead
As the Ravens and Tucker strategize on how to regain his elite form, all eyes will be on their games to see how adjustments and perseverance manifest on the field. With a focus on mechanical adjustments, Tucker’s return to the seamless accuracy that once defined him seems plausible. The stakes remain high, as does the faith in his ability to reclaim his status as the league’s premier kicker.