The Cincinnati Bengals are firmly establishing their commitment to retaining core players by announcing the extension of kicker Evan McPherson's contract. This move follows the earlier extension of their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, signaling the Bengals' intention to maintain a strong, cohesive unit in their bid for success in the NFL.
McPherson, who was drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has been a cornerstone for the Bengals' special teams. His new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, underscores his importance to the team. A significant portion of this contract, $10 million, will be earned in the first year, setting a record for a three-year kicker deal. This investment indicates the high level of confidence the Bengals have in McPherson's abilities and potential.
A Record-Setting Kicker
During his tenure with the Bengals, McPherson has demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency. He has successfully made 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts, a stat that ties him with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most makes from such distances. His performance under pressure is equally impressive, having made all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts.
McPherson's role in the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run was nothing short of historic. He made 14 playoff field goals during that campaign, setting a record for the most field goals without a miss by any kicker in a single postseason in NFL history. This flawless execution not only contributed to the Bengals' success but also solidified McPherson's reputation as a reliable and clutch performer.
Locking Down Key Players
The decision to extend McPherson's contract comes on the heels of securing Joe Burrow, another key player who is central to the Bengals' aspirations. By ensuring that both the quarterback and the kicker are locked into long-term deals, the Bengals are taking crucial steps to fortify their roster. This strategy is indicative of a broader commitment to nurturing and retaining talent, essential for building a championship-caliber team.
In addition to Burrow and McPherson, the Bengals have placed a franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins for the 2024 season. Higgins' presence on the field is expected to bolster the Bengals' offensive firepower, complementing Burrow's passing game and providing a reliable target for crucial plays.
A Strategic Move
Extending McPherson's contract is not just about securing a kicker; it's a strategic move that reflects the Bengals' long-term vision. By locking in a proven performer like McPherson, the Bengals are reinforcing a key component of their special teams, which can often be the difference maker in tightly contested games. His track record of accuracy, particularly from long distances and in high-pressure situations, makes him an invaluable asset.
As the Bengals look forward to the upcoming season, the extension of McPherson's contract will undoubtedly be viewed as a positive step. Fans and analysts alike recognize the importance of having a dependable kicker, especially one who has already etched his name into the record books with outstanding playoff performances.
Ultimately, the Bengals' recent moves, including the extension of McPherson's contract, demonstrate a calculated effort to build a resilient and competitive team. By keeping core players like Burrow, Higgins, and McPherson within their ranks, the Bengals are positioning themselves not only for immediate success but also for sustained excellence in the future.