McPherson's New Contract Extension Highlights Bengals' Commitment
The Cincinnati Bengals have strategically demonstrated their commitment to their core roster by extending kicker Evan McPherson's contract. This move follows the earlier extension of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow's contract, signaling a concerted effort to maintain key players as the team eyes continued success.
McPherson's new contract is a three-year deal worth $16.5 million, with $10 million in new money being allocated in the first year alone. This financial commitment not only underscores McPherson's value to the team but also sets a record for a three-year deal for a kicker. Such a substantial investment reflects the confidence the Bengals' management has in McPherson's prowess on the field and his pivotal role in the team's strategy.
Drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, McPherson quickly established himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league. His accuracy and consistency have been remarkable, with stats confirming that McPherson has made 21 out of 28 field goals from 50 yards or deeper. This feat places him in the league's elite, tying him with Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell and Arizona Cardinals kicker Matt Prater for the most successful attempts from such a distance during his tenure.
McPherson's impeccable record is not limited to regular-season games. In playoff scenarios, where every point can determine the course of the championship, McPherson has proven indispensable. He has made all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts, a perfect streak that underscores his reliability under pressure. During the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl run, McPherson made 14 playoff field goals, setting a record for the most field goals without a miss by any kicker in a single postseason in NFL history.
This extension underscores the Bengals’ philosophy of building around a strong, dependable core, ensuring they have the stability needed to compete at the highest levels. Alongside McPherson, the extension of Joe Burrow further emphasizes this strategy. With Burrow leading the offense and McPherson delivering crucial points with his precision kicking, the Bengals are laying down a solid foundation for future victories.
Another crucial player in the Bengals' lineup, Tee Higgins, is set to play the 2024 season under the franchise tag. Higgins’ performance will be closely watched as the Bengals continue to build a team that is not only competitive but also cohesive and resilient.
The decisions made by the Bengals' front office affirm a broader strategy of securing young talents who have already shown their merit on the field. By locking in key players like McPherson and Burrow through long-term extensions, the Bengals are positioning themselves for sustained success in the fiercely competitive NFL landscape.