In a significant move solidifying their roster, the Cincinnati Bengals have extended the contract of kicker Evan McPherson. Known for his exceptional leg and unflappable demeanor under pressure, McPherson’s new three-year contract is worth $16.5 million. This deal underscores the Bengals’ dedication to retaining core players critical to their success on the field.
Commitment to Core Players
The Bengals' front office has been busy ensuring the stability of key positions within their lineup. Prior to McPherson's extension, the team had already secured their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, under a new deal. By focusing on retaining crucial talent, the Bengals are signaling their intent to remain competitive in the highly challenging AFC.
Record-Breaking Contract
McPherson's contract not only reflects his value to the Bengals but also sets a new benchmark in the league. In the first year of this new deal, McPherson will earn $10 million in new money, a record amount for a three-year contract for a kicker. This financial commitment highlights the confidence the Bengals have in McPherson’s abilities and his potential to be a difference-maker in games.
Performance and Reliability
Since being drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, McPherson has quickly established himself as one of the premier kickers in the league. Notably, he has made 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. This impressive statistic ties him with Chris Boswell of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Matt Prater of the Arizona Cardinals for the most makes from that distance during his tenure in the NFL.
McPherson's prowess isn't limited to regular-season play. He has been immaculate under the high-pressure conditions of the playoffs. He has made all 19 of his field goal attempts in postseason play. Perhaps most impressively, McPherson made 14 field goals during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, setting a record for the most field goals in a single postseason without a miss in NFL history.
Stability Moving Forward
With McPherson secured, the Bengals now turn their attention to other key contracts. Wide receiver Tee Higgins is playing the 2024 season on the franchise tag, and his future with the team remains a point of interest. However, with Burrow and McPherson locked in, the Bengals’ foundational pieces are firmly in place.
Looking Toward Success
The extension of Evan McPherson's contract signifies more than just a financial decision; it represents the team's strategy to build a roster capable of sustained success. The confidence in McPherson mirrors the organizational culture of investing in and trusting their developed talent.
The Bengals are invested in maintaining their trajectory of improvement and championship contention. The strategic extensions of critical players like Burrow and McPherson reveal the Bengals' blueprint for future success. Ensuring that players who have contributed to previous successes remain with the team offers a measure of stability and predictability. These factors are pivotal in navigating the complexities of the NFL season and achieving the ultimate goal of bringing a Super Bowl title to Cincinnati.