BOBBY BURACK: Justin Tucker signing exposes sports media’s selective outrage over NFL misconduct
Andy Reid defended the move after Tucker served a 10-game NFL suspension for violating the personal conduct policy
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Kansas City Chiefs signed kicker Justin Tucker to their practice squad Wednesday, drawing fierce criticism from the sports media.
Head coach Andy Reid faced five straight minutes of questions about Tucker during his news conference.
"He’s done his suspension. Took care of his business there. I’ll leave it at that," Reid said.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The NFL suspended Tucker for 10 games in 2025 for violating its personal conduct policy after 16 female massage therapists accused him of sexual misconduct in the Baltimore area between 2012 and 2016. Tucker vehemently denies the allegations, including in a statement to OutKick at the time of the claims.
The usual suspects criticized the move.
"It only takes one ounce of desperation from one franchise to welcome back into the league somebody who was a pariah," Dan Le Batard said.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}ESPN analyst Mina Kimes responded by posting a screenshot of the allegations against Tucker. Several Kansas City media members also expressed frustration with the signing.
But a proper response to the signing is not as binary as one on social media.
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{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) warms up against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., on Sept. 5, 2024. (Denny Medley-Imagn Images)
By NFL standards, Tucker has paid his due. The Chiefs signed a player eligible to play this week. The situation is hardly unique.
Look around the NFL.
Packers running back Josh Jacobs returned to the field Sunday after the NFL placed him on the commissioner exempt list before the season. Jacobs was arrested and charged with allegedly strangling and suffocating his girlfriend. His legal team has worked to keep a video of the alleged incident private.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Broncos pass rusher Jonathon Cooper also returned from the commissioner exempt list Sunday. He faces a felony charge of second-degree assault by strangulation, along with several misdemeanor charges stemming from alleged altercations with his then girlfriend.
The Seattle Seahawks signed Terrion Arnold in August after the Lions released him. Detroit cut the cornerback after he was charged with eight felonies connected to an alleged plot to kidnap, pistol-whip and rob three men he believed had stolen from him. Arnold faces up to life in prison.
Then there is Deshaun Watson, who faced allegations similar to Tucker’s, but from more women and involving more serious claims, including allegations that he forced women to perform oral sex. The therapist also filed a civil lawsuit against Watson. Tucker's accusers have not.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Still, despite the allegations and lawsuits, the Browns signed Watson to the largest guaranteed contract in NFL history in 2022.
Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after kicking a 36-yard field goal to defeat the Minnesota Vikings in overtime during an NFL game on Nov. 7, 2021, in Baltimore, Md. (Getty Images)
In each of those cases, the player is accused of criminal or inappropriate conduct, denies the allegations, is suspended or placed on leave, and eventually returns to the league. The case of Justin Tucker is no different.
And yet, the outrage from the sports media is notably selective.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Compare the coverage of Tucker joining the Chiefs’ practice squad to the lack of coverage over the Seahawks signing Arnold, who is facing criminal charges.
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Again, the conversation is complicated.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Kansas City Chiefs have also long shown a tolerance for players with baggage. Examples include Tyreek Hill, Rashee Rice, Kareem Hunt, Charles Omenihu and Frank Clark. It's barely a surprise the team would show interest in Tucker if it believes he can solve its kicking woes.
Jan 4, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) arrives before the game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. (Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images)
This Sunday, NFL stadiums across the country will feature players accused and/or convicted of heinous actions and crimes.
Tucker joining a practice squad probably shouldn't be the one to draw the line on NFL teams employing players with questionable character.
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Alas, the Chiefs signing Justin Tucker warrants a more nuanced conversation than the one happening. A much broader discussion should be had.