Justin Tucker has never witnessed pregame theatrics quite like those involving Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes.
Subject: Unusual Pregame Incident Involving Justin Tucker, Patrick Mahomes, and Travis Kelce
On the eve of the AFC Championship game, seasoned NFL kicker Justin Tucker, a veteran of 12 years with the Baltimore Ravens, encountered an unprecedented pregame incident. While going through his routine warm-up near Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Tucker found himself amidst an unexpected encounter with Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce.
Tucker clarified the customary practice where each team’s kicker utilizes the opposing team’s designated warm-up area. Recounting the incident to reporters, Tucker explained that he was approached by Mahomes, who requested him to move his helmet while he was stretching on the ground. Obliging, Tucker shifted his helmet, thinking it was far enough out of the way. However, Kelce, seemingly taking the situation more seriously, kicked Tucker’s belongings and threw his helmet aside.
Videos from the pregame warm-up captured the scene, with Tucker calmly stretching while Mahomes practiced in the end zone. Kelce intervened, tossing Tucker’s practice balls and helmet aside. Despite the initial tension, the situation did not escalate further, and the players maintained cordiality during the coin toss and throughout the game.
Addressing the incident, Tucker expressed his willingness to move past it, emphasizing his focus on preparing for the football game. He underscored that in his 12-year career, he had never encountered such an issue and noted the professionalism of all players involved. Tucker found it somewhat amusing that the incident required clarification, considering he perceived it as a minor pregame occurrence.
