The Baltimore Ravens are reportedly considering a new kicker for the near future, and one standout from Pitt could be their next big move. According to Ben Rolfe’s latest seven-round mock draft for Pro Football Network, the Ravens are projected to select Pitt placekicker Ben Sauls in the seventh round with the No. 245 overall pick.
Justin Tucker, the Ravens’ five-time First Team All-Pro kicker, had a challenging 2024 season, converting just 22 of 30 field goals—a career-low 73.3% accuracy. On top of that, Tucker is now facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct from 16 massage therapists, which he has strongly denied, according to the Baltimore Banner.
In contrast, Sauls enjoyed an impressive 2024 campaign. He was flawless on PATs, hitting all 44 of his attempts, and nailed 21 of 24 field goals. His lone blocked attempt came after he had made his first 13 attempts of the season, and his first miss came on a 47-yard field goal in a tough loss to No. 20 SMU. Sauls also showcased his leg strength with six field goals from over 50 yards, including a career-high 57-yarder in a tough loss at Boston College.
His 49-yard field goal in Week 9 against Syracuse set a school record for most consecutive field goals, breaking a 1995 record set by Chris Ferenick and equaling the 2007 mark of Conor Lee. Sauls had previously made 15 straight before that miss. He also hit a 58-yard field goal against Cal, tying the longest field goal made at Acrisure Stadium, previously set by Steelers kicker Chris Boswell.
One of Sauls’ most memorable moments came in the 2022 Sun Bowl, where he was perfect on all five of his field goal attempts, including a game-winning 47-yard kick as time expired to seal the win for Pitt. His clutch performance earned him Lou Groza Semifinalist honors, making him just the third Pitt player to receive that recognition.
Sauls’ breakout 2024 season saw him earning All-American honors from PFF and All-ACC Third Team accolades. He finished his college career with an impressive 81.3% success rate on field goals (52 of 64) and nailed 122 of 124 PATs. Though Sauls had an extra year of eligibility, he opted to walk on Senior Day and is now focused on making the jump to the NFL.
As part of his post-college journey, Sauls represented Pitt at the East-West Shrine Bowl and will also showcase his talents at the NFL Combine, alongside teammates like tight end Gavin Bartholomew, offensive tackle Branson Taylor, and wide receiver Konata Mumpfield.
Could Sauls be the one to fill Justin Tucker’s shoes in Baltimore? It looks like the Ravens are taking serious interest in the talented kicker from Pitt as they prepare for the future.
