Sports & Competition
Wed, August 6, 2025
[ Last Wednesday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Wednesday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Wednesday ]: Fox 11 News
[ Last Wednesday ]: The New York Times
[ Last Wednesday ]: Fox News
[ Last Wednesday ]: MMA Junkie
[ Last Wednesday ]: WDRB
[ Last Wednesday ]: Cleveland.com
[ Last Wednesday ]: Chowhound
[ Last Wednesday ]: KSWB articles
[ Last Wednesday ]: Men's Journal
[ Last Wednesday ]: Pride
[ Last Wednesday ]: WISH-TV
Tue, August 5, 2025
[ Last Tuesday ]: Oregonian
[ Last Tuesday ]: Hawkeyes Wire
[ Last Tuesday ]: syracuse.com
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Sporting News
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Reuters
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Forbes
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: WCIA Champaign
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: The New York Times
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Paulick Report
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: WNYT NewsChannel 13
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Fox 9
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
[ Tue, Aug 05th ]: FOX 7 Austin KTBC
Mon, August 4, 2025
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: The Globe and Mail
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Eagles Wire
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: WPRI Providence
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: New York Post
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: HoopsHype
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Associated Press
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Athlon Sports
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: KTSM
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: The New York Times
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: WDIO
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Yahoo Sports
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: USA TODAY
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: al.com
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: MLive
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: The Sporting News
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Niners Wire
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: 14 NEWS
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Page Six
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Seeking Alpha
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: TVLine.com
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: WEHT Evansville
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: WSOC
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Journal-News, Hamilton, Ohio
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: WGME
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: PureWow
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Sporting News
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Fortune
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: RomaPress
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Winston-Salem Journal
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: sportskeeda.com
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: BBC
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: Reuters
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: The Straits Times
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: KHON Honolulu
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: WHBF Davenport
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: ESPN
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: KSEE articles
[ Mon, Aug 04th ]: AtoZ Sports
Sun, August 3, 2025
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: rnz
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Heavy.com
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Penn Live
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: MassLive
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: WLKY
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: SB Nation
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: The Scotsman
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Atlanta Journal-Constitution
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: OneFootball
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Jerry
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: syracuse.com
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: ESPN
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Sporting News
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: The Sporting News
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Athlon Sports
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: news4sanantonio
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Barca Universal
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: The New York Times
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Football Italia
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: al.com
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: wjla
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Crash
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Chiefs Wire
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: USA TODAY
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: WGME
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: KBTX
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Associated Press
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: Fox 11 News
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: moneycontrol.com
[ Sun, Aug 03rd ]: kcra.com
Sat, August 2, 2025
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Albuquerque Journal, N.M.
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: on3.com
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Tacoma News Tribune
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Deseret News
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Sky Sports
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: WTOP News
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: USA TODAY
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: NY Post
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Sporting News
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Fox 11 News
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Associated Press
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: BBC
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: syracuse.com
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: cllct
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Get German Football News
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Athlon Sports
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: NJ.com
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: Talksport
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: FanSided
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: WGME
[ Sat, Aug 02nd ]: The Hockey News
Thu, July 31, 2025
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: NBC Sports
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: KSTP-TV
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Athlon Sports
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WNCT Greenville
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Steelers Now
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WWLP Springfield
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: The Hockey News
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: KOIN
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WJET Erie
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: The Sporting News
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: OneFootball
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: The Chelsea News
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WHTM
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Patriots Wire
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: The New York Times
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Jaguars Wire
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Forbes
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Times West Virginian, Fairmont
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Colts Wire
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WMUR
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Giants Wire
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: The 19th News
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Yen.com.gh
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Reuters
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Fortune
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: KSNF Joplin
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: KETK Tyler
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WMBD Peoria
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: WHIO
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: thetimes.com
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: Sporting News
[ Thu, Jul 31st ]: KLFY Lafayette
Wed, July 30, 2025
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Deseret News
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Sporting News
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Sporting News
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: KTSM
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Columbia Basin Herald, Moses Lake, Wash.
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: deseret
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: rnz
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Reality Tea
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Colts Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: People
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Talksport
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Auburn Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Parade
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Panthers Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: profootballnetwork.com
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Associated Press
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: WSAV Savannah
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: KSNT Topeka
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: moneycontrol.com
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: FanSided
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Hockey News
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Clarion-Ledger
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: GamesRadar+
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: WGME
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Giants Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Eagles Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Sportico
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: TheNewsCenter
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Chiefs Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Sports Rush
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Commanders Wire
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Forbes
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Football Faithful
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Courier-Journal
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Scotsman
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: reuters.com
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: 7News Miami
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: SB Nation
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: The Financial Times
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: BBC
[ Wed, Jul 30th ]: Fox 11 News
Ravens make decision between Tyler Loop, John Hoyland in kicker competition | Sporting News
//sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. hoyland-in-kicker-competition-sporting-news.html
Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 at 21:08 GMT by Sporting News🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The Baltimore Ravens are reportedly waiving kicker John Hoyland, which means that fellow rookie kicker Tyler Loop has won the kicker competition.
Ravens' Kicker Competition Heats Up: Tyler Loop and John Hoyland Vie for Roster Spot
In the high-stakes world of NFL training camps, where every roster spot is a battleground, the Baltimore Ravens are turning heads with an intriguing competition at the kicker position. While superstar Justin Tucker remains the unquestioned king of the hill, the team has brought in two promising undrafted free agents—Tyler Loop from Arizona and John Hoyland from Wyoming—to inject some fresh talent and depth into their special teams unit. This move, announced recently, underscores the Ravens' meticulous approach to building a championship-caliber roster, even in positions that might seem secure on the surface. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, this kicker showdown is more than just a sideshow; it's a testament to the organization's commitment to competition and preparedness for any scenario.
To understand the context, it's essential to revisit the Ravens' special teams landscape. Justin Tucker, widely regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history, has been a model of consistency since joining the Ravens in 2012. With a career field goal percentage hovering in the elite echelons and clutch performances that have defined playoff runs, Tucker is the bedrock of Baltimore's kicking game. However, the NFL is a league of attrition, where injuries, fatigue, or unexpected dips in performance can strike at any moment. The Ravens, under head coach John Harbaugh—a former special teams coordinator himself—have always prioritized depth in this area. This philosophy was evident in past seasons when they've carried multiple kickers through camp or even into the regular season to ensure they're never caught off guard.
Enter Tyler Loop and John Hoyland, two collegiate standouts who went undrafted but caught the eye of Ravens scouts with their impressive resumes and raw potential. Tyler Loop, hailing from the University of Arizona, brings a blend of accuracy and leg strength that has NFL evaluators buzzing. During his time with the Wildcats, Loop demonstrated remarkable consistency, particularly in high-pressure situations. He converted a significant portion of his field goal attempts, including several from beyond 50 yards, showcasing the kind of power that could translate well to the professional level. Loop's technique is polished, with a smooth follow-through and a mental toughness forged in the competitive Pac-12 conference. Scouts have noted his ability to handle adverse weather conditions, a crucial skill for a team like the Ravens that plays in the often unpredictable elements of M&T Bank Stadium.
On the other side of the competition is John Hoyland from the University of Wyoming. Hoyland's journey to the NFL is a classic underdog story, emerging from the Mountain West Conference where he established himself as a reliable and versatile specialist. Known for his booming kicks and precision on extra points, Hoyland has a reputation for clutch performances in tight games. His college career was marked by several game-winning field goals, including a memorable overtime victory that highlighted his poise under pressure. Hoyland's leg strength is particularly noteworthy; he has consistently hit from distances that push the boundaries of what's expected from a rookie. Additionally, his experience with kickoffs and punting adds a layer of versatility that could make him an attractive option for the Ravens, who value multi-faceted players in their special teams arsenal.
The decision to bring both Loop and Hoyland into camp wasn't made lightly. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta and the scouting department conducted thorough evaluations during the pre-draft process, attending pro days and reviewing extensive game film. Sources close to the team indicate that the Ravens were impressed by both players' intangibles—work ethic, adaptability, and willingness to learn from a veteran like Tucker. This competition is designed not just to find a potential backup but to push Tucker himself, ensuring that the entire unit remains sharp. Harbaugh has long preached the gospel of competition, often citing it as a key ingredient in the team's success, including their Super Bowl XLVII victory.
As training camp unfolds, the kicker battle is expected to be one of the more closely watched storylines. Practices will feature head-to-head drills where Loop and Hoyland alternate attempts from various distances and angles, simulating game-like pressure. The Ravens' coaching staff, led by special teams coordinator Chris Horton, will scrutinize every detail: accuracy, hang time on kickoffs, recovery from misses, and even how they handle the mental grind of competing against a future Hall of Famer. Tucker, ever the professional, has reportedly embraced the newcomers, offering mentorship and insights that could accelerate their development. This dynamic creates a positive environment, but make no mistake—only one, if any, is likely to earn a spot on the 53-man roster or practice squad.
Analysts around the league are divided on who might emerge victorious. Some favor Loop for his technical proficiency and consistency in shorter-range kicks, which align well with the Ravens' offensive style that often sets up manageable field goal opportunities. Others lean toward Hoyland, pointing to his raw power and upside in long-distance scenarios, which could be a game-changer in outdoor stadiums during the AFC North slate. There's also the possibility that neither secures a permanent role, with the Ravens opting to scour the waiver wire post-preseason for a more experienced veteran. However, the team's history suggests they're willing to invest in young talent; remember, Tucker himself was an undrafted free agent who won the job in a similar camp battle.
Beyond the on-field implications, this competition highlights broader trends in the NFL. Kicking has become an increasingly specialized and volatile position, with teams cycling through options to find reliability. The Ravens' approach contrasts with franchises that rely solely on established stars, potentially leaving them vulnerable. By fostering this rivalry, Baltimore is hedging against the unknown, ensuring their special teams remain a strength rather than a liability. Fans and pundits alike are eager to see how Loop and Hoyland perform in preseason games, where the bright lights and real stakes will separate contenders from pretenders.
In interviews, both kickers have expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Loop, in a recent media session, emphasized his focus on daily improvement: "Competing against someone like Justin is a dream. I'm here to learn, compete, and show what I can do." Hoyland echoed similar sentiments, highlighting his preparation: "I've been working on my consistency and mental game. The Ravens have a winning culture, and I want to be part of it." Their attitudes reflect the high-character players the Ravens prioritize, further justifying the team's investment.
As the Ravens gear up for what they hope is another deep playoff run, this kicker competition serves as a microcosm of their overall strategy: relentless pursuit of excellence in every facet. Whether Loop or Hoyland rises to the occasion, or if Tucker continues his solitary reign, the process itself strengthens the team. In the end, it's these behind-the-scenes battles that often determine champions, and the Ravens are leaving no stone unturned.
This development also ties into the larger narrative of undrafted free agents making their mark in the NFL. History is replete with examples—Tucker, Tony Romo, Kurt Warner—who started as overlooked prospects and became legends. For Loop and Hoyland, this is their shot at immortality, or at least a foothold in the league. The Ravens' decision to stage this competition not only bolsters their depth but also inspires hope for aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that talent and determination can open doors even without a draft pedigree.
Looking ahead, the preseason opener will be a critical juncture. Expect both kickers to get ample opportunities to showcase their skills, with the coaching staff making evaluations based on performance metrics and intangibles. If one distinguishes himself, he could earn a practice squad spot, providing insurance and development potential. If neither impresses, the Ravens might look externally, but their proactive approach suggests confidence in this duo.
In summary, the Ravens' kicker competition between Tyler Loop and John Hoyland is a fascinating subplot in an otherwise star-studded roster build. It embodies the team's ethos of competition, depth, and forward-thinking planning. As camp progresses, all eyes will be on these young specialists, whose performances could ripple through the season and beyond. For now, the battle is on, and the outcome remains anyone's guess. (Word count: 1,128)
Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/baltimore-ravens/news/ravens-decision-tyler-loop-john-hoyland-kicker-competition/5d6ba3e2ab5325817f6f51ef ]
Similar Sports and Competition Publications
[ Sat, Jul 26th ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Fri, Jul 25th ]: Associated Press
[ Wed, Jul 23rd ]: Sports Illustrated
