McPherson's Contract Extension Anchors Bengals' Strategy
The Cincinnati Bengals have made a bold statement regarding their future by extending kicker Evan McPherson's contract. The deal not only safeguards a pivotal player but also underscores the Bengals' strategy of keeping their core talent intact as they aim for sustained success.
Securing McPherson comes on the heels of another significant move—the extension of their franchise quarterback Joe Burrow. Together, these deals signal Cincinnati’s commitment to maintaining the high level of performance that has recently characterized the team.
McPherson's new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, sets a notable benchmark. Particularly impressive is the $10 million he is set to earn in the first year, a record for a three-year deal for a kicker. This sizable investment reflects McPherson's on-field success and consistency, making him an invaluable asset for the Bengals.
McPherson was a fifth-round draft pick, selected 149th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. Despite being drafted relatively late, he has far exceeded expectations and consistently proved his worth. His exceptional performance from long distances—making 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts—showcases his reliability under pressure. In fact, he is tied with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most successful field goals from 50 yards or deeper during this period.
Beyond the regular season, McPherson’s playoff statistics further cement his reputation. Notably, he has made all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts, a flawless record that includes an impressive 14 field goals during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run. These 14 playoff field goals not only highlight his consistency but also set a record for the most field goals without a miss by any kicker in a single postseason in NFL history.
While McPherson's extension focuses on securing the special teams, the Bengals have other contractual situations to monitor. For instance, star wide receiver Tee Higgins is playing the 2024 season on the franchise tag. These developments indicate that the Bengals are carefully balancing their budget while trying to keep their competitive edge by retaining key players.
By locking down McPherson, the Bengals have solidified a key piece of their roster. His clutch performances and long-range accuracy not only provide immediate scoring opportunities but also serve to boost the team’s morale and confidence in high-pressure situations. As the Bengals continue to evolve and strive for championship success, McPherson will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their journey.