The Cincinnati Bengals have solidified their special teams for the foreseeable future by extending kicker Evan McPherson's contract. This strategic move underscores the franchise's dedication to retaining its core players, a policy they previously demonstrated by extending their star quarterback, Joe Burrow.
McPherson, who was drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has proven to be an integral part of the Bengals' roster. His new three-year deal, worth $16.5 million, includes a remarkable $10 million in new money in the first year alone. This amount sets a record for a three-year kicker deal, highlighting the Bengals' confidence in his abilities on the field.
McPherson: A Record-Breaking Kicker
Since joining the team, McPherson has showcased his impressive range and accuracy, making 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. This achievement ties him with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most long-distance makes during his tenure. His reliability doesn't end in the regular season; McPherson has made all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
During the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, McPherson etched his name in the record books by making 14 playoff field goals, a record for the most field goals without a miss in a single postseason in NFL history. This level of performance in high-pressure situations has made him invaluable to the Bengals' championship aspirations.
Bengals' Commitment to Core Players
McPherson's contract extension reflects the Bengals' broader strategy of maintaining a stable core of key players. This is evident not only in their handling of McPherson but also in the extension of Joe Burrow, a critical figure for the team’s offensive stability. Keeping such cornerstone players ensures that the team has a solid foundation to build upon in the coming seasons.
Additionally, the Bengals have placed wide receiver Tee Higgins on the franchise tag for the 2024 season, indicating their intent to keep another vital part of their roster at least through the short term. With these moves, the Bengals are aiming to create continuity and preserve the chemistry that has yielded significant success in recent years.
Looking Ahead
As the Bengals prepare for the upcoming seasons, the extension of McPherson's contract represents a key piece of their puzzle. His ability to deliver under pressure provides a safety net for the Bengals in tight games, and his record-setting performances offer assurance that the team can count on him in critical moments. By locking in McPherson through 2027, the Bengals can focus on building other areas of their roster, knowing they have one of the league's best kickers secured for the long term.
Ultimately, the Bengals' moves in extending their top talents like McPherson and Burrow, and securing key players such as Higgins, indicate a strategic approach to maintaining their competitive edge. As the team looks to build on its recent successes, the stability provided by retaining star players will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities of future NFL seasons.