Justin Tucker Addresses Pre-game Incident with Mahomes and Kelce

Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker spoke to reporters on Monday, shedding light on the pre-game dust-up with Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce as players packed up for the offseason.

Before the AFC Championship Game, Tucker attempted to warm up in the designated area between Mahomes and Kelce. However, things took an unexpected turn when Mahomes tossed Tucker’s ball holder and Kelce moved Tucker’s helmet and gloves from the goal line.

Tucker’s Perspective

“I find it kinda silly we even have to address it or talking about something that happened before the game I really don’t see as a big deal,” he said. “… For those that don’t know, the way it works is each team’s kicker goes to the other team’s designated warmup area on the field. For me, it’s usually about 90 minutes before kickoff.”

“I’ve been doing the exact same thing for 12 years, never really had a problem with anybody. That’s kind of the way we’ve always done it. I saw Patrick there trying to warm up and get some dropbacks. He asked me while I was on the ground stretching if I could move my helmet.”

“I happily got up and I moved my helmet out of the way – at least I thought it was enough out of the way – and then Travis comes over and just kicks my stuff and throws my helmet. I thought it was all just some gamesmanship, all in good fun, but they seemed to be taking it a little bit more seriously.”

Tucker’s Reaction and Professionalism

Tucker expressed his willingness to let bygones be bygones after the little tiff. “Never had an issue with anybody,” he added. “At the end of the day, we’re all professionals just trying to get ready for the football game. Those are two of the best players that have ever played the game at their respective positions.”

“They were just trying to get ready for the football game. Obviously, it’s an intense environment, so it’s really whatever to me, man. I’m just trying to get ready for the football game.”