The Cincinnati Bengals have solidified their special teams' future by extending kicker Evan McPherson's contract. This move underscores the team's strategy of retaining their core players, ensuring stability and consistency as they aim for continued success in the NFL.
A Key Piece of the Puzzle
McPherson, who has been a standout performer since being drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has been rewarded with a lucrative three-year contract worth $16.5 million. The deal, which includes $10 million in new money in the first year, sets a record for a three-year kicker contract, highlighting McPherson's significant value to the team.
This extension is part of the Bengals' broader strategy to cement their core roster. The team recently extended their franchise quarterback Joe Burrow, emphasizing their commitment to building a championship-contending squad. By locking in McPherson, the Bengals ensure that one of the most reliable legs in the league remains in Cincinnati for the foreseeable future.
Record-Breaking Performance
McPherson's performance on the field justifies the Bengals' investment. Known for his long-range accuracy, McPherson has made 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. This remarkable achievement ties him with Pittsburgh Steelers' Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals' Matt Prater for the most makes from that distance during his tenure.
However, McPherson's value is not only in the regular season. The kicker has been perfect in playoff scenarios, making all 19 of his field-goal attempts in the postseason. His most notable performance came during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, where he set a record by making 14 field goals without a miss in a single postseason—the most by any kicker in NFL history.
Strategic Moves
This contract extension reflects the Bengals' larger strategy of maintaining a competitive edge. With Joe Burrow secured and now McPherson locked in, the Bengals demonstrate a clear intention to keep their top-tier talent in Cincinnati. This stability is crucial as the team continues to build on the momentum of recent seasons.
The extension also arrives at a time when wide receiver Tee Higgins is playing the 2024 season on the franchise tag. These moves collectively highlight the Bengals' focus on ensuring that key contributors remain a part of the squad, while also strategically navigating the complexities of salary cap management and player retention.
For fans, this extension is a promising sign. McPherson’s clutch performances, especially in high-stakes situations, have endeared him to the Bengals' faithful. His ability to deliver in critical moments offers not just points on the board but also a psychological edge that can be pivotal in close games. Having McPherson's dependable leg as a fixture in Cincinnati provides confidence that the team can perform under pressure.
Looking Ahead
As the Bengals prepare for the upcoming season, the focus shifts to maximizing the impact of their retained core. Ensuring Burrow, McPherson, and other key players remain in prime form will be paramount. McPherson's contract extension is a clear indicator of the organization's commitment to this cause.
While McPherson’s record-breaking deal sets a new standard for kickers, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of special teams in the NFL. A reliable kicker can often be the difference between a win and a loss, and in McPherson, the Bengals have one of the best in the business.
With the ink now dry on McPherson's new deal, the Bengals can turn their attention to the upcoming challenges on the field, reassured that they have one of the most reliable special teams weapons under contract for the next three years.