Bengals Secure Evan McPherson with Record-Setting Extension
In a strategic move to maintain their competitive edge, the Cincinnati Bengals have announced the extension of kicker Evan McPherson's contract. The new three-year deal, valued at $16.5 million, underscores the franchise's commitment to retaining their core players. This decision follows the earlier extension of their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, signaling the Bengals' clear focus on long-term stability and success.
A Record-Setting Deal
Notably, McPherson's contract sets a new standard for kickers. In the first year alone, he will earn $10 million in new money, a record for a three-year deal in his position. This lucrative agreement reflects McPherson's significant contributions to the team since being drafted 149th overall in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Excellence on the Field
McPherson's on-field performance has been nothing short of stellar. Renowned for his accuracy, he has successfully made 21 out of 28 field goals from 50 yards or deeper. This impressive feat places him in a tie with Chris Boswell of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Matt Prater of the Arizona Cardinals for the most successful attempts from such a distance during his tenure. Additionally, McPherson has demonstrated exceptional consistency under pressure, making all 19 of his playoff field goal attempts.
A Historical Playoff Run
McPherson's heroics were a pivotal part of the Bengals' 2021 Super Bowl campaign. During that postseason, he made 14 field goals, setting a record for the most field goals without a miss by any kicker in a single postseason in NFL history. His precision and calmness in high-stakes situations have made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Commitment to Core Players
The Bengals' decision to extend McPherson's contract highlights their broader strategy to keep their key players within the fold. This approach was also evident with the recent extension of Joe Burrow, their franchise quarterback. By securing long-term commitments from cornerstone players, the Bengals are focused on building a team that can consistently compete at the highest levels.
Future Prospects
While McPherson's extension is a significant move, it's also worth noting that wide receiver Tee Higgins will be playing the 2024 season on the franchise tag. This indicates the Bengals' intent to possibly negotiate a longer-term deal with another of their prominent young talents in the near future.
Overall, the Bengals' strategic extensions of key players like McPherson and Burrow demonstrate their commitment to developing a championship-contending team. With McPherson's record-setting deal, the Bengals have ensured that one of the NFL's most reliable kickers will remain with them for the foreseeable future, contributing to their pursuit of excellence.