Rookie kicker Tyler Loop successfully converted five field goals in his homecoming preseason game, cementing his position as Justin Tucker’s successor while leading the Baltimore Ravens to a 31-13 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Coach John Harbaugh confirmed post-game that the sixth-round draft pick would be Baltimore’s starting kicker for the regular season, concluding a high-profile position battle following Tucker’s controversial offseason departure.
Loop, a native of Lucas, Texas playing just miles from his hometown, delivered a standout performance at AT&T Stadium. He connected on field goals from 53, 52, 42, 36, and 29 yards, demonstrating both power and accuracy. His only miss came from 50 yards late in the fourth quarter, though he immediately rebounded with a 53-yard conversion. Approximately 30 friends and family members witnessed the 23-year-old’s NFL breakthrough moment firsthand.
The game occurred on Saturday, August 16, 2025 during the second week of NFL preseason action. Loop’s performance came against the Dallas Cowboys at their Arlington, Texas home stadium. His emergence follows the Ravens’ difficult decision to release longtime star Justin Tucker after misconduct allegations surfaced during the offseason. Loop’s composure under pressure suggests Baltimore may have found a worthy successor to one of football’s most accurate kickers.
Loop’s kicking provided the scoring foundation for Baltimore’s victory, accounting for 15 points. His success came despite challenging circumstances – including a critical fourth-quarter attempt immediately following a Cowboys interception. Coach Harbaugh praised Loop’s mentality: “He’s earned it… I appreciate the fact he wants to make ’em all.” The rookie himself maintained humility, noting he must “still earn it every day.”
The Ravens dominated statistically, outgaining Dallas 273-31 in first-half yardage. Quarterback Cooper Rush (20/30, 198 yards) contributed a touchdown pass against his former team but threw two interceptions, including a pick-six. Defensively, Baltimore recorded an early safety when Keyon Martin sacked Cowboys QB Joe Milton in the end zone.
Loop’s performance directly impacts Baltimore’s regular-season plans, resolving what was considered the NFL’s most uncertain kicking situation. His ability to convert long-distance attempts (two beyond 50 yards) validates the organization’s confidence in him as Tucker’s replacement. For Dallas, the game highlighted offensive struggles, with coach Brian Schottenheimer acknowledging the need to “push the work button” after consecutive preseason losses.
Looking ahead, Loop will continue refining his technique during Baltimore’s final preseason game at Washington on August 23. The Ravens open their regular season on September 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders, where Loop’s regular-season debut will face immediate scrutiny. Meanwhile, Dallas seeks offensive improvements before hosting Atlanta on August 22.
This transition represents a significant organizational shift for Baltimore, moving from the most accurate kicker in NFL history to an unproven rookie. Loop’s successful debut under hometown pressure suggests he possesses the mental toughness required for the role, though his true test begins when regular-season games commence next month.