The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move to solidify their special teams by extending the contract of standout kicker Evan McPherson. This extension follows closely on the heels of the team securing their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, further emphasizing their strategy to retain the core players essential to their success.
Commitment to Excellence
McPherson's new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, is a bold statement of the Bengals' commitment to their special teams unit. The deal includes a record-breaking $10 million in new money for the first year, setting a precedent for three-year contracts for kickers in the NFL. By locking in McPherson with such a lucrative deal, the Bengals are clearly indicating their belief in his skills and potential for future contributions.
A Record-Breaking Kicker
Drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, McPherson has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league. With a remarkable ability to execute under pressure, he has successfully converted 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. This proficiency ties him with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most makes from such distances during his tenure.
McPherson's performance in the postseason has been nothing short of stellar. He has maintained a perfect record in playoff field goal attempts, converting all 19 tries. His contributions were especially crucial during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, where he made 14 field goals, setting an NFL record for the most field goals without a miss by any kicker in a single postseason.
Bengals' Strategic Moves
The Bengals' decision to extend McPherson comes amid a series of strategic moves to reinforce their roster. The extension of Joe Burrow was a significant step towards securing the offensive leadership, and now, with McPherson's deal, the team is ensuring they have consistency in their special teams unit. This methodical approach reflects the Bengals' broader strategy to build a well-rounded and cohesive team capable of competing at the highest levels.
Additionally, wide receiver Tee Higgins is set to play the 2024 season on the franchise tag, highlighting the Bengals' focus on maintaining their competitive edge through strategic player retention. This blend of securing both offensive and defensive talents positions the Bengals as a formidable team in the upcoming seasons.
Looking Ahead
As the Bengals continue to secure their core players, fans can look forward to a team that is not only unified but also poised to make significant strides in the NFL. McPherson's extension is more than just a contract; it's a reflection of the Bengals' commitment to excellence and a signal of their intentions to remain competitive in the fiercely contested league.
With their franchise quarterback and star kicker locked in, the Bengals are clearly focused on building a dynasty. The team's methodical approach to player retention, coupled with strategic acquisitions, sets the stage for what could be a thrilling chapter in Cincinnati Bengals' history.