Baltimore Ravens' Justin Tucker, widely regarded as the most consistent kicker in the history of the NFL, has had an unexpected season where he struggled a lot.
However, legendary kicker Martin Gramatica says there is no cause for alarm. Tucker has struggled with uncharacteristic inconsistency, but Gramatica believes the Ravens should keep their franchise kicker as the team enters the final stretch of the season.
Tucker's Struggling Season: What's Going on?
It is the first time in years Justin Tucker has experienced what seems like a slump. According to TMZ Sports, the 35-year-old kicker has made only 19 of 27 field goal attempts and missed two extra points this season. He had a tough game against the Eagles where three missed field goals arguably cost Baltimore a crucial win.
Inconsistencies like these are astonishing coming from a player with the résumé of Tucker. Once renowned for being nearly flawless and then perfect in high-pressure situations, Tucker has been the stalwart of the Ravens for quite some time.
Martin Gramatica on Tucker's Slump
In an interview with TMZ Sports, former NFL kicker Martin Gramatica believes in Tucker. He does not think that the slump Tucker is facing is mental but rather physical.
"He's mentally one of the strongest, toughest guys I've ever watched play in the NFL," Gramatica explained. "So, I don't think it's a mental thing."
Gramatica said that Tucker's mechanics might simply be off for a period of time, which is a common problem for even the best kickers.
"He's going to snap out of it. There's no question that he knows how to kick. He's done it forever."
The Right Call: Stick with Tucker
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told NBC Sports that he wants to keep Tucker as the team's kicker. Gramatica thinks this is a good decision. Replacing a kicker of Tucker's caliber, especially during a playoff push, could do more harm than good.
Tucker's knack for recovering from adversity is another attribute through which the Ravens might feel confident in him. According to Gramatica, such adversity rarely befalls a player of his stature, and indeed, he might soon overcome his current setbacks.
The Ravens are on bye this week, and that helps Tucker a lot in refreshing himself and fine-tuning his mechanics. The team returns on December 15 against the Giants, and Tucker gets an excellent chance to get back into rhythm.
Why Justin Tucker Is Still the NFL's Best Kicker
Even with all the struggles of this year, Tucker's legacy stands among the greatest kickers. His clutch performances, unmatched consistency, and mental toughness are just some qualities that set him apart.
A rough patch does not define a career, and as Gramatica has said, he has all the tools to get back on track when it really matters.
For the Ravens, believing in Tucker could be the difference between winning and losing in the postseason. Players of his caliber don't stay down for long.
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