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Former Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker will not sign with the New Orleans Saints after practicing with the team following an 11-week suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
Blake Grupe missed two field goals from less than 50 yards in the first half of the Saints’ 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, including one from 38 yards and a second from 47 yards.
His eight missed goals this season prompted the team to look outside the roster for help.
Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) kicks the ball during the first quarter against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. (Tommy Gilligan/Imagn Images)
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Tucker, a veteran placekicker, tried out with the team on Monday. Saints head coach Kellen Moore spoke about Tucker’s tryout and called his off-the-field issues “unfortunate.”
“He’s been a very good kicker in this league for a very long time, he’s had a lot of success and he’s been a leader for Baltimore for a long time,” he said. via ESPN. “He’s been one of their leaders for a long time with a very successful team and so obviously there have been things that have been unfortunate.
Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) warms up against the Kansas City Chiefs before a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri on September 5, 2024. (Denny Medley-Imagn Images)
SAINTS COACH KELLEN MOORE DISCUSS JUSTIN TUCKER’S TRAINING SETUP: ‘HE SAW AN EXPERIENCE’
“He had an experience, and I think it’s about collecting what that experience was, and we’ll evaluate the football aspect of it and we’ll evaluate everything else as well.”
Tucker was released by the Ravens during the offseason after 13 years with the organization following accusations from massage therapists of inappropriate sexual behavior. He has denied all accusations.
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Despite Moore’s praise, Nick Underhill reported Tuesday that the Saints expect to sign Cade York. The NFL Network added that Grupe is also expected to be released.
Cincinnati Bengals kicker Cade York (3) lines up to kick a field goal as time expires during the second quarter of the Week 16 NFL game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. (IMAGINE)
