The Baltimore Ravens are facing backlash for seemingly valuing kicker Justin Tucker over the alleged victims, following a contentious statement regarding his release.
Tucker, 35, was let go after 16 massage therapists from eight different Baltimore-area spas accused the married NFL player of sexual misconduct.
Though Tucker has denied the accusations, calling them “shocking and heart-breaking,” the Ravens stated on Monday that his release was a “football decision.”
In their announcement, general manager Eric DeCosta did not acknowledge the allegations, instead offering praise for Tucker, a Super Bowl winner with the team since 2012.
Critics, including sports analyst Dan Le Batard, have slammed the Ravens for their approach. Le Batard said he felt “outraged” and accused the organization of acting as if Tucker were the victim, protecting a player “just because he’s worth three points,” rather than showing support for the alleged victims.