Thursday marked the final day of training camp, which was open to the public. From now on, practices will be closed to fans.
The day was also marked as Special Team Day for the media. The specialists, including placekicker Justin Tucker, talked to reporters on Thursday.
Tucker is regarded by most football experts, pundits, and observers to be the greatest kicker of all time. The G.O.A.T. label certainly applies, as Tucker is not just the most accurate kicker in NFL history (90.2%), but also the owner of the longest field goal made in history (66 yards).
But with all that he’s accomplished, Tucker is not slowing down. The concept of complacency doesn’t exist in his mind.
He knows that there are always new competitors out there, coming to take the top spot.
“I feel like I always have to [push that limit],” Tucker said.
“I know there are dudes out there that are coming for the top spot. Everybody in this league is competitive and wants to be the best.
“I have to keep that in my mind and keep making sure I’m playing at a level that we can all consider elite.”
“We want to dominate on special teams.” @jtuck9 pic.twitter.com/9ZQM7af7Xk
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 15, 2024
Despite turning 35 this midseason, Tucker is still in his prime. However, his numbers from long distances went down last season.
The seven-time Pro Bowler knows what he needs to do to maintain a high level.
“Accuracy, distance, they all go hand in hand as far as I’m concerned,” he said.
“Developing every part of my game is just as important now as it ever was.”
Tucker, a 2010s NFL All-Decade Team member, has made 395 field goals and scored 1,649 points in his NFL career.