The Cincinnati Bengals have further solidified their roster by announcing the extension of kicker Evan McPherson's contract. This move reflects the team’s dedication to retaining key talents and ensuring a competitive edge as they build for the future.
In a strategic decision, the Bengals have signed McPherson to a new three-year contract worth $16.5 million. The deal underscores their commitment to maintaining not just any roster, but one filled with proven and dependable players.
Record-Breaking Deal
The terms of McPherson's contract include an impressive $10 million in new money for the first year, setting a record for a three-year deal for a kicker. This milestone exemplifies the Bengals' confidence in McPherson's abilities and contributions to the team’s success.
McPherson was initially drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Since then, he has proven his worth, particularly through his remarkable long-range kicking accuracy. To date, McPherson has successfully made 21 field goals from distances of 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. His long-range precision has placed him in an elite class, tying him with Pittsburgh Steelers' kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals' kicker Matt Prater for the most successful attempts from such distances during his tenure.
Clutch Performer
Beyond regular season performance, McPherson has excelled in the postseason. He has made a flawless 19 out of 19 playoff field goal attempts, exhibiting unwavering reliability under high-pressure scenarios. His standout performance came during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, making 14 playoff field goals without a miss. This incredible streak set a new NFL record for the most field goals without a miss in a single postseason.
Keeping the Core Intact
This extension is part of a broader strategy by the Bengals to build and maintain a strong core of key players. Just before extending McPherson, the team had secured their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, ensuring that the cornerstone of their offense remains in Cincinnati for years to come.
Additionally, Tee Higgins is set to play the 2024 season on the franchise tag, signaling yet another critical move by the Bengals to retain their top talents.
With these calculated and forward-thinking moves, the Cincinnati Bengals are positioning themselves as a formidable team not only in the upcoming season but for many seasons to come. McPherson's contract extension is a testament to their trust in his abilities and his pivotal role in the team's impressive recent past and anticipated future success.
The Bengals’ strategic extensions indicate their keen focus on creating a harmonious and effective team environment, aiming for sustained excellence and deep playoff runs. By securing players like McPherson and Burrow, the Bengals are not just preparing for the next season—they are building a legacy of resilience, reliability, and record-breaking performances.