Justin Tucker found himself in a pregame scuffle with Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce ahead of Sunday’s AFC championship game.
Addressing the incident on Monday while cleaning out his locker after the Ravens’ season-ending loss, Tucker explained that he was going through his usual pregame routine when Mahomes and Kelce approached him and moved his equipment aside.
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Tucker, a seasoned veteran with 12 years of experience, expressed surprise at the confrontation, stating that he had never encountered such an issue before. He recounted how Mahomes asked him to move his helmet while he was stretching on the ground, which Tucker promptly did. However, Kelce then proceeded to kick his belongings, indicating a more serious tone than Tucker initially perceived.
Patrick Mahomes and Justin Tucker going at it pregame 😂. Mahomes keeps kicking Tuckers holder away. pic.twitter.com/KeqhYyle4t
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) January 28, 2024
Despite the incident, Mahomes and Kelce have not commented on the matter, focusing instead on their upcoming Super Bowl showdown against the San Francisco 49ers. Tucker, on the other hand, clarified that he harbored no ill will and was simply trying to prepare for the game like any other player.
Travis Kelce told Justin Tucker he needed to move because their QB Patrick Mahomes had to warm up. So Kelce kicked his ball away and threw his helmet. 😂 pic.twitter.com/pFF0DC1yA7
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) January 28, 2024
Video footage captured the exchange, showing Mahomes kicking Tucker’s ball holder and Kelce tossing aside his helmet and balls. Tucker emphasized that it’s customary for kickers from both teams to warm up in both end zones to acclimate to the playing conditions.
In the end, Tucker expressed his willingness to move past the incident and reiterated his commitment to focusing on the game.
