The Kansas City Chiefs have made a controversial move to shore up their kicking game, signing veteran Justin Tucker to the practice squad. The news, first reported by Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star, has ignited a firestorm of criticism from NFL fans who haven't forgotten Tucker's troubling off-field history or his declining performance.
Tucker, a seven-time Pro Bowler and eight-time All-Pro, hasn't played since the end of the 2024 season. He was suspended for the first 10 games of the 2025 season after the NFL investigated allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior dating back to his time with the Baltimore Ravens. The Baltimore Banner reported in January 2025 that multiple massage therapists accused Tucker of misconduct between 2012 and 2016. Tucker has denied the allegations, but the league's investigation led to the suspension.
Now, the Chiefs are bringing him in as insurance for their kicking game, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Harrison Butker, the team's longtime kicker, has already missed five field goals and an extra point this season, and Rapoport noted that Tucker is seen as a safety net. But the move has left many fans scratching their heads.
Social media erupted with a mix of disbelief and sarcasm. One fan wrote, "Oh good, an old washed kicker with serious allegations off the field. That'll do it." Another posted, "GTFOH WHAT?!?" — a sentiment echoed by former Chiefs lineman Mitchell Schwartz. A third fan called it "one of the dumbest, most tone deaf moves I've seen from this organization."
The criticism isn't just about Tucker's past. His on-field performance in 2024 was a far cry from his prime. He converted just 22 of 30 field goals and missed two extra points — a shocking decline for a player who once boasted a career field goal percentage of 89.1. He's also known for his long-range accuracy, with 64 career field goals from beyond 50 yards, including multiple from 60-plus.
But even fans willing to look past his off-field issues are worried about his recent struggles. "Found someone actually less likable than Butker. Impressive work," one user joked, referencing the tension in the Chiefs' locker room that has been a topic of discussion this season.
The Chiefs' decision to bring in Tucker comes amid a season where they've faced off-field distractions and on-field challenges. Adding a player with Tucker's baggage is a gamble that could pay off if he regains his form, but it's a risky bet for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
For now, Tucker will join the practice squad, where he'll work to prove he can still kick at an NFL level. But the backlash from fans — and the lingering questions about his character and ability — make this one of the most polarizing signings of the year.
