In a significant stride towards fortifying their special teams unit, the Cincinnati Bengals have announced the extension of their dynamic kicker, Evan McPherson. This move underscores the franchise's determination to keep its core players intact and build momentum for future successes. With the Bengals previously securing the future of their star quarterback Joe Burrow, they have now turned their attention to ensuring stability in the kicking game.
McPherson’s New Deal
McPherson’s new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, includes a notable $10 million in new money within the first year. This large sum sets a record for a kicker signed on a three-year deal, reflecting the high regard in which McPherson is held by the organization. The substantial upfront payment is both a reward for his past performances and an investment in reliability when the stakes are high.
Draft and Performance Highlights
Selected 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Evan McPherson has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most reliable kickers. In his relatively short career, he has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to perform under pressure, making 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. This impressive statistic ties him with Pittsburgh Steelers' kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals' kicker Matt Prater for the most successful long-distance kicks during this timeframe.
Historic Playoff Success
McPherson’s prowess extends into the postseason, where he has made all 19 of his field goal attempts. His significant contribution came during the Bengals' thrilling 2021 Super Bowl run, where he converted 14 field goals. This remarkable achievement set the record for the most field goals without a miss in a single postseason in NFL history, a testament to his consistency and mental toughness in high-stakes situations.
The Bigger Picture
This contract extension not only secures McPherson’s place in Cincinnati’s immediate future but also reflects the team’s broader strategy. By ensuring long-term commitments from pivotal players like McPherson and Burrow, the Bengals are laying a solid foundation to remain competitive. These moves are indicative of a team that is not just looking to make the playoffs but aiming to establish sustained success.
Tee Higgins on Franchise Tag
In related developments, standout wide receiver Tee Higgins will be playing the 2024 season on the franchise tag. While this ensures his presence for at least another year, it leaves room for further negotiations and the possibility of a longer-term deal. Together, these strategic moves depict a franchise that is proactive and strategic in its pursuit of excellence.
The Bengals’ commitment to retaining their critical players signals a future where the team could be perennial contenders. Evan McPherson’s extension is more than just a contract—it’s a statement of intent, highlighting the Bengals' commitment to excellence and their belief in building from within.