The Cincinnati Bengals have solidified their kicking game for the foreseeable future by extending Evan McPherson's contract. The decision comes as part of the team's broader strategy to maintain a stable core of key players, a strategy already evidenced by the recent extension of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow's contract.
McPherson's Million-Dollar Deal
McPherson's new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, is notable not just for its overall worth, but particularly for its structure. The kicker will earn $10 million in new money within the first year of the deal, setting a record for the most lucrative first-year payout ever seen in a three-year contract for a kicker. This level of financial commitment illustrates the Bengals' confidence in McPherson's abilities and their desire to secure his contributions for the coming seasons.
Selected 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, McPherson has more than justified his draft position. Throughout his time with the Bengals, he has proven to be one of the most reliable kickers in the league, particularly in high-pressure situations. His performance statistics speak volumes: he has successfully made 21 field goals from distances of 50 yards or more, out of 28 attempts. This achievement places him in an elite group, tied with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most successful attempts from this range during his tenure.
Clutch Performance in the Playoffs
McPherson's prowess isn't limited to the regular season. He has been nothing short of exceptional in the playoffs, where the stakes are highest. Remarkably, he has made all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts, a feat that underscores his ability to perform under extraordinary pressure. Highlighting his value to the team, McPherson's kicking was instrumental during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, where he made 14 playoff field goals, setting an NFL record for the most field goals without a miss in a single postseason.
This level of consistency and clutch performance is a rare commodity, and it's clear why the Bengals would prioritize securing McPherson's services for the next few years. His contributions have been a critical part of the team's recent successes, and his presence will undoubtedly be a cornerstone for their future endeavors.
A Cohesive Core
The extension of McPherson's contract fits neatly into the Bengals' broader strategy of ensuring continuity among their core players. The earlier extension of Joe Burrow's contract underscored their commitment to building around their star quarterback, and McPherson's extension follows in that vein. This plan is designed to create stability and foster long-term success by keeping proven, high-performing players within the organization.
While McPherson and Burrow have their new contracts in place, wide receiver Tee Higgins finds himself in a somewhat different situation. Higgins will be playing the 2024 season under the franchise tag, a situation that suggests the team is still working on long-term plans for the talented receiver. However, his presence, even under the franchise tag, provides another crucial piece of the puzzle for the Bengals as they aim to remain competitive in the years to come.
The Bengals' approach to roster management is clearly focused on retaining talent and ensuring that their core players are adequately compensated. By extending McPherson and Burrow, and tagging Higgins, they are creating a solid foundation aimed at sustained success both in the regular season and in the playoffs. This demonstrates a calculated and future-focused approach to team building, likely designed to maximize their window of opportunity for competing at the highest level.
In conclusion, McPherson's contract extension is not just a reward for his past performances but also an investment in the Bengals' future. With his reliability, especially in high-stakes moments, McPherson embodies the kind of player any team would want to build around. As the Bengals look ahead, they can do so with confidence, knowing that some of their most skilled and dependable players are committed to remaining in Cincinnati.