Justin Tucker

The Opera-Singing Kicker

Justin Tucker is an American football placekicker for the Baltimore Ravens. Widely regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history, Tucker is known for his incredible accuracy and powerful leg. This website offers a tribute; a comprehensive overview of his life, career, and interests, aiming to be a consolidated resource for fans.

YearTeamGames PlayedField Goals MadeField Goals AttemptedField Goal PercentageExtra Points MadeExtra Points AttemptedTotal Points
2012Baltimore Ravens16303390.90%4242132
2013Baltimore Ravens16384192.70%2626140
2014Baltimore Ravens16293485.30%4242129
2015Baltimore Ravens16334082.50%2929128
2016Baltimore Ravens16383997.40%2727141
2017Baltimore Ravens16343791.90%3939141
2018Baltimore Ravens16353989.70%3637141
2019Baltimore Ravens16282996.60%5759141
2020Baltimore Ravens16262989.70%5253130
2021Baltimore Ravens17353794.60%3232137
2022Baltimore Ravens17374386.00%3132142
2023Baltimore Ravens17323786.50%5152147
2024Baltimore Ravens17223073.30%6062126

Justin Tucker's impact on the NFL is undeniable. Beyond his record-breaking performances, he is a multi-talented individual with passions for music, family, and philanthropy, making him an inspiration to fans worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 21, 1989, in Houston, Texas, Justin Paul Tucker moved with his family to Austin at the age of three—where he would spend his formative years. He attended Westlake High School, a renowned institution recognized for both academic excellence and athletic prowess. A gifted and versatile athlete, Tucker played wide receiver and safety for the Chaparrals while also serving as the team’s placekicker. His early experience playing soccer further sharpened his kicking skills, ultimately earning him a spot in the prestigious 2008 U.S. Army All-American Bowl, showcasing his exceptional talent among the nation’s top high school players.

Tucker continued his athletic journey at the University of Texas at Austin, playing for the Longhorns from 2008 to 2011. Initially a communications major, he discovered a passion for music and switched his focus to studying recording technology and opera under the guidance of Professor Nikita Storojev at the Sarah and Ernest Butler School of Music. During his time at UT, he developed the remarkable ability to sing operatically in seven languages—English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Latin, and Russian. Balancing athletics and academics, Tucker strategically graduated a semester early with a Bachelor of Arts in music to prepare for the NFL draft.

Tucker’s early life and education underscore a relentless commitment to hard work, discipline, and well-rounded pursuits. The values he embraced at Westlake and the University of Texas laid a solid foundation for his future success, both on and off the field. Today, he is celebrated not only as a record-setting NFL kicker, but also as a uniquely talented individual whose dedication to music remains as impressive as his accomplishments in sports.

NFL Career

Early Career and Super Bowl Win

Tucker's journey to the NFL is a testament to his talent and determination. Despite an impressive college career with the third-highest field goal conversion rate in University of Texas history (83.3%), he was not invited to the NFL Combine or Senior Bowl and went undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft. However, the Baltimore Ravens saw his potential and signed him as an undrafted free agent. He immediately made an impact, securing the starting kicker position and playing a key role in the Ravens' Super Bowl XLVII victory in his rookie season.

Record-Breaking Performances

In 2021, Tucker made NFL history by kicking a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions, the longest successful field goal in the league's history. This incredible feat showcased his remarkable leg strength and accuracy under pressure. He also holds the record for the highest career field goal percentage in NFL history at 89.1%.

Consistency and Awards

Tucker's consistency and excellence have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career, including:

    • Seven Pro Bowl selections
    • Five first-team All-Pro selections

His ability to consistently deliver in high-pressure situations has made him a fan favorite and a crucial component of the Ravens' success.

Clutch Performance

Tucker holds several clutch records, including:

    • Most consecutive field goals made in the fourth quarter/overtime: 61
    • Most game-winning field goals with no time remaining in regulation
    • Highest field goal conversion rate in the second half and overtime: 95.4%

2024 Season

The 2024 season presented challenges for Tucker, as he faced a dip in accuracy. He made 22 of 30 field goal attempts (73.3%), marking his lowest career accuracy. Despite this, he remained a valuable contributor, scoring 126 points and converting 60 of 62 extra points.

Lifestyle and Interests

Tucker is a classically trained opera singer, a talent he nurtured during his time at the University of Texas. He often showcases his vocal abilities at charity events and in commercials, captivating audiences with renditions of opera classics like "Ave Maria."

In addition to opera, Tucker is an accomplished guitar player and enjoys a wide range of musical genres, from classical to modern rap.

Personal Life

Justin Tucker is married to Amanda Bass, whom he met during freshman orientation at the University of Texas. They married in 2015 and have a son named Easton, born in 2016. His parents, Paul and Michelle Tucker, played significant roles in his life, instilling values of hard work and balance.

Philanthropy

Tucker is actively involved in giving back to the community, supporting organizations like:

  • Gallagher Services - Catholic Charities of Baltimore
  • Helping Up Mission
  • Maryland Food Bank

He has also donated $50,000 from the CBS show "Most Valuable Performer" to the Baltimore School for the Arts.

Social Media Presence

While specific details weren't provided, fans can likely find Justin Tucker on platforms like Twitter and Instagram for updates on his activities.