Image Source: Baltimore Ravens
Jake Moody is set to take over kicking duties for the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night after Tyler Loop suffered a right groin injury. Head Coach Jesse Minter announced Monday that Moody will handle field goals and extra points against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The news comes at a challenging moment for Baltimore, which enters the matchup with a 4-4 record and several important players dealing with injuries. Loop did not participate in Monday’s walkthrough, and Minter acknowledged that the second-year kicker could potentially be placed on injured reserve.
Jake Moody Gets a Critical Opportunity With Ravens
Moody joined Baltimore’s practice squad for the second time on October 20. The former San Francisco 49ers third-round pick now moves into an immediate game-day role, giving the Ravens an experienced option at a position where every kick could carry significant weight.
In his NFL career, Moody has converted 64 of 82 field-goal attempts and 107 of 110 extra-point tries. Those numbers provide Baltimore with a dependable statistical foundation, although the pressure will be different with the Ravens preparing for a nationally significant Thursday night contest.
Long snapper Nick Moore said Moody has looked sharp during practice and expressed excitement about working with him.
“He’s had some really good kicks in the NFL,” Moore said, according to the Baltimore Ravens. “I’m excited for the opportunity to work with him.”
Moore also offered support for Loop, who has faced an uneven stretch after a promising rookie season. He emphasized that kicking in the NFL is difficult and that Loop has continued to approach his job professionally.
Tyler Loop’s Difficult Stretch Creates Urgency
Loop missed a 34-yard field goal Sunday while Baltimore trailed the Buffalo Bills, sending the ball into the left upright. He later made a 26-yard attempt, but his earlier miss became part of a difficult afternoon for the Ravens’ special teams.
Loop also kicked the opening kickoff out of bounds, allowing Buffalo to begin at its own 40-yard line. The Bills turned that field position into a touchdown drive, adding to Baltimore’s struggles in a game that exposed problems across multiple phases.
The 26-year-old kicker has now missed four field-goal attempts this season, making 13 of 17. During his rookie campaign, he missed only four of 34 attempts. The contrast has made consistency a major talking point as the Ravens search for answers.
Whether Loop lands on injured reserve remains uncertain. For now, the Ravens must prepare as if Moody will be responsible for the team’s scoring opportunities against Jacksonville.
Ravens Face Bigger Problems Beyond the Kicking Game
Although the kicking change is significant, Baltimore’s most urgent concern may be its offensive line. The Ravens’ quarterbacks were hit 12 times against Buffalo, and the pass-protection issues contributed to injuries throughout the game.
Lamar Jackson suffered a thumb injury after his throwing hand collided with Bills outside linebacker Greg Rousseau on Baltimore’s opening play. Jackson will require surgery and is expected to miss time on injured reserve.
Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley also left Sunday’s game with a toe injury, while third-string quarterback Joe Fagnano took a low hit and finished the contest while appearing to favor his leg. The injuries have left Baltimore searching for a stable offensive plan ahead of Thursday’s game.
Minter said the offensive line must improve in both pass protection and the running game, while stressing that injuries cannot become an excuse.
“We’re chasing improvement, we’re chasing continuity,” Minter said. “That’s not an excuse.”
Special Teams Could Decide Thursday’s Game
With Jackson unavailable and the quarterback situation unsettled, the Ravens may need strong performances from their defense and special teams. Minter said Baltimore could need to “steal a play” on special teams while finding a different offensive formula.
That makes Moody’s debut especially important. A clean performance in field-goal range could help stabilize an offense that is expected to rely more heavily on its running game, short throws and defensive field position.
Rookie right guard Vega Ioane also hopes to return against Jacksonville after being listed as a limited participant in Monday’s walkthrough. His availability could help an offensive line that desperately needs greater continuity.
For Moody, the assignment is straightforward but demanding: convert his chances, avoid costly mistakes and help the Ravens remain in the AFC playoff race. A successful performance could give Baltimore confidence at kicker while Loop recovers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jake Moody
Why is Jake Moody kicking for the Ravens?
Moody is stepping in because Tyler Loop is dealing with a right groin injury and may be placed on injured reserve.
When will Jake Moody make his Ravens debut?
Moody is expected to kick for Baltimore on Thursday night against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
What are Jake Moody’s NFL career numbers?
Moody has made 64 of 82 field-goal attempts and 107 of 110 extra-point attempts during his NFL career.
How has Tyler Loop performed this season?
Loop has converted 13 of 17 field-goal attempts this season and has missed four kicks. He also kicked one opening kickoff out of bounds against Buffalo.
Why is the kicking change important for Baltimore?
The Ravens are 4-4 and dealing with major injuries, including Lamar Jackson’s thumb injury. Reliable special teams play could be crucial to keeping Baltimore’s playoff hopes alive.
