In a crucial move to bolster their roster, the Cincinnati Bengals announced the extension of kicker Evan McPherson's contract. The extension underscores the Bengals' strategic focus on retaining their core players, a practice they have sustained with recent deals, including that of their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow.
McPherson's Record-Setting Deal
McPherson's new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, represents a significant investment in their special teams. The deal is particularly noteworthy because McPherson will earn $10 million in new money in the first year, setting a precedent for three-year kicker contracts in the NFL.
Since being drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, McPherson has continuously proved his worth. His remarkable performances have cemented his role as a dependable kicker for the Bengals. Notably, he has successfully made 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts, a statistic that places him in an elite group of kickers. McPherson is tied with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most successful long-distance field goals during his career thus far.
Playoff Heroics
McPherson's playoff exploits stand out, especially during the Bengals' dramatic 2021 Super Bowl run. He achieved the astonishing feat of making all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts. His 14 successful attempts during that postseason alone established a record for the most field goals without a miss by any kicker in a single postseason in NFL history. Such clutch performances under pressure have only further endeared him to the Bengals' fanbase.
Commitment to Core Players
The Bengals have shown a strong commitment to retaining their essential players, demonstrated by McPherson's extension. This move follows the recent contract extension of superstar quarterback Joe Burrow, solidifying the team's core as they aim for another deep playoff run. McPherson's reliability and performance have been crucial factors in the Bengals' success, and securing him for the foreseeable future was a priority for the organization.
In addition to McPherson and Burrow, the Bengals are making strategic moves with other key players. Notably, wide receiver Tee Higgins is slated to play the 2024 season on the franchise tag. These decisions reflect the Bengals' determination to keep their championship window open by ensuring their most impactful players remain integral parts of the team.
The Bengals' proactive moves in securing top talent speak volumes about their aspirations. By focusing on retaining and rewarding key performers like McPherson, they are laying a strong foundation for continued success in the highly competitive NFL landscape. As fans look forward to the upcoming seasons, the stability brought by these core players will be an essential element in the Bengals' quest for excellence.