BALTIMORE — Rookie kicker Tyler Loop is embracing the intense spotlight as he steps in to replace Justin Tucker during the Baltimore Ravens’ 2025 training camp. On Sunday morning at the Ravens’ team meeting, head coach John Harbaugh heightened the pressure on Loop, reminding him of the thousands of fans watching at M&T Bank Stadium. Despite this, Loop calmly converted all 11 field-goal attempts during practice, including impressive kicks from 56 and 60 yards.
Selected in the sixth round of this year’s NFL Draft, Loop has demonstrated not only a powerful leg but also the poise necessary to fill the shoes of Tucker, who was released in May following sexual misconduct accusations and subsequently suspended for 10 games by the league. This high-profile transition places Loop under the spotlight, making the “Justin Tucker replacement pressure” a critical storyline for the Ravens heading into the season.
Loop’s Confident Approach to Replacing a Legend
Loop, who played collegiate football at the University of Arizona, remains unfazed by the expectation to replace Tucker, the most accurate kicker in NFL history. Reflecting on the added pressure, Loop said,
“I think it can be pressure if you focus on it,”
and added,
“But if we’re focused on what I can control, my process, all that stuff, it just, it’s one of those things.”
This mindset has helped him stand out in training camp as the first kicker ever drafted by the Ravens since the franchise began 30 years ago. He is currently the only kicker on Baltimore’s roster after the team waived undrafted rookie John Hoyland, underscoring the confidence the organization has placed in Loop’s capabilities.
Coach Harbaugh’s Measured Confidence in Loop
While Harbaugh praised Loop’s progress, he emphasized that the final decision for the starting kicker role will depend heavily on the preseason games.
“He’s kicking well enough to win the job,”
Harbaugh acknowledged,
“But as we know, it’s going to be the [preseason] games that’s going to mean the most.”
Loop’s accuracy has been evident, completing 51 of 55 field goal attempts during team drills, which calculates to a strong 92.7 percent success rate. One notable moment came after a flawless 60-yard kick during stadium practice, when Loop celebrated by spinning his finger in the air, a confident gesture that showcased his growing self-belief.
Support and Praise From Teammates and Coaches
Following the impressive 60-yard field goal, Loop was met with congratulations from Harbaugh and a supportive hug from quarterback Lamar Jackson, illustrating the team’s encouragement. Jordan Stout, the Ravens’ punter and Loop’s holder, highlighted Loop’s confidence, mentioning that the team’s tracking system projected Loop’s kick to be effective from 67 yards. Stout noted,
“He’s a pretty confident guy in the first place,”
before adding,
“It may not change anything. He’s confident enough now, in the best way possible.”
Senior special teams coach Randy Brown played a key role in selecting Loop, having evaluated around 30 kickers nationwide before the draft. The Ravens made it clear they believed in Loop’s potential by choosing not to bring in a veteran kicker to challenge him during camp, signaling their long-term commitment.
Looking Ahead to Preseason and the Future Role
Loop appears poised to take over Tucker’s kicking duties, provided he continues to perform well throughout the upcoming preseason, which begins Thursday with the Ravens hosting the Indianapolis Colts. Loop’s consistent performance and calm under pressure highlight his readiness to fill a demanding role.
The rookie expressed a focus on maintaining composure and enjoying the process during this brief but intense stage of his career.
“One thing we talk about is just staying loose and just enjoying it,”
he said,
“Really, this is such a short time for us. The more that we can control what we can control, and one of the things is our emotions and our response to things. So if I can get out there and just have fun, that’s special and a big thing for me. I’m enjoying it.”
As the Ravens prepare to transition from Tucker’s era, Loop’s performance and mindset will be crucial for the team’s success. His ability to handle the Justin Tucker replacement pressure with confidence and determination makes him a pivotal figure to watch as the season unfolds.