Chiefs Sign Kicker Justin Tucker to Practice Squad After Suspension Ends

The Kansas City Chiefs added kicker Justin Tucker to their practice squad on Wednesday. The move brings a 37-year-old veteran into the fold after he sat out the entire 2025 NFL season following a ten-week suspension for sexual misconduct.

Tucker had last played in the NFL during the 2024 season with the Baltimore Ravens. His contract with the Ravens ended, and he remained unsigned for a full year while the league investigated allegations from six women regarding nonconsensual behavior during massage sessions between 2012 and 2016.

The Chiefs face a pressing need for reliability at the kicking position. Starting kicker Harrison Butker has missed five of his 16 field goal attempts this season. Tucker, who is second all-time in the NFL for field goal percentage, struggled in his final year in Baltimore, converting 73.3% of his kicks.

Head coach Andy Reid addressed the signing in a brief statement. When asked about the message sent to fans, Reid said, "He’s done his suspension. Took care of his business there. I’ll leave it at that." He added that the team spoke with many people to ensure things were okay before finalizing the deal.

Reid explained his evaluation process by noting that Tucker served his suspension and that time had passed since the initial reports. He declined to detail the specific inquiries made by the organization, stating, "I’m not going to get into all of that."

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes also commented on the addition. He expressed confidence in the front office, noting that general manager Brett Veach and his staff do a great job bringing in players. Mahomes said he focused on the recent game against the Denver Broncos and moving forward.

Tucker worked out with the Miami Dolphins earlier this year. The Chiefs will now evaluate his performance as a practice squad member. He is eligible to be elevated to the active roster for games if needed.