Bengals Secure Kicker Evan McPherson with Lucrative Three-Year Extension
In a significant move to fortify their lineup, the Cincinnati Bengals have announced the extension of kicker Evan McPherson's contract. This extension is part of the Bengals' broader strategy to maintain their core players and ensure the stability and consistency of their team. The Bengals had previously extended their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, underlining their commitment to retaining key talent.
A Record-Breaking Deal
McPherson’s new three-year contract, valued at $16.5 million, will see him earn an unprecedented $10 million in new money during the first year alone. This amount sets a new record for a three-year kicker deal, underscoring the Bengals' confidence in McPherson's abilities and their willingness to invest heavily in special teams.
The decision to offer such a lucrative contract reflects McPherson’s exceptional performance since joining the team. Drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, McPherson has quickly established himself as one of the league's top kickers. His poise and precision under pressure have been instrumental in the Bengals' recent successes.
Impressive Performance
McPherson's record speaks for itself. He has successfully made 21 field goals from 50 yards or deeper out of 28 attempts. This remarkable accuracy has him tied with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most makes from 50 yards or more during his tenure. McPherson's deep-kick prowess provides the Bengals with a critical scoring option in tight games.
Equally commendable is McPherson's performance in the postseason. He has converted all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts, a perfect record that includes 14 successful kicks during the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run. These 14 field goals set an NFL record for the most field goals made without a miss in a single postseason. His reliability in high-stakes situations further solidifies his reputation as one of the league's most clutch performers.
Strategic Implications
Securing McPherson is part of a larger strategic effort by the Bengals to build a resilient and competitive roster. The extension of Joe Burrow's contract earlier signaled the team's intent to create a stable core around which to develop and grow. McPherson's extension is another step in this direction, ensuring that the team retains key contributors on both sides of the ball.
Moreover, the Bengals' approach to maintaining a strong team is seen in their handling of wide receiver Tee Higgins, who will play the 2024 season on the franchise tag. These moves indicate a balanced approach to player retention and the management of team dynamics, prioritizing both current performance and future potential.
The Bengals' strategy appears to be aimed at long-term success rather than short-term gains. By locking down essential players through significant financial investments, the team demonstrates its commitment to building a sustainable and competitive squad capable of consistent postseason appearances.
In conclusion, the extension of Evan McPherson's contract is a clear indicator of the Bengals' forward-thinking strategy. It emphasizes their focus on retaining crucial players who have proven their value and reliability. With McPherson secured and the core team intact, the Bengals are well-positioned to compete at the highest levels in the coming seasons.