Evan McPherson: Cincinnati Bengals' Kicker Under Pressure in 2024

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Rising to Stardom
• Struggles in the 2024 Season
• Impact on Bengals' Playoff Chances
• Responding to Adversity
• Conclusion

Introduction

Evan McPherson, the Cincinnati Bengals' kicker, is no stranger to high-pressure situations. Since being drafted in the fifth round in 2021, McPherson has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, particularly in clutch moments. However, his 2024 season has introduced a new chapter in his career — one filled with mounting pressure and growing scrutiny due to missed field goals in critical game moments. This article takes a closer look at McPherson’s performance, the challenges he faces, and how this impacts the Bengals' playoff aspirations.

Rising to Stardom

McPherson entered the NFL as a relatively unknown name but quickly became a fan favorite in Cincinnati. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. With a knack for delivering in clutch moments, he played a pivotal role in some of the Bengals’ most memorable victories, including their 2021 playoff run. According to reports, McPherson ranks third on Cincinnati’s all-time field goal percentage list, a testament to his early success.

Nicknamed "Money McPherson" for his reliable leg, the kicker entered the 2024 season with high expectations, bolstered by his fearless reputation. With a 4-year contract worth $3.82 million, fans and analysts alike expected him to be one of the Bengals' most dependable assets (Spotrac). But NFL seasons are unpredictable, and 2024 has thrown McPherson some unexpected challenges.

Struggles in the 2024 Season

Despite a strong start, McPherson’s 2024 season has raised concerns. In Week 11 against the Los Angeles Chargers, McPherson missed two crucial fourth-quarter field goals that likely cost the Bengals a potential comeback win. These missed kicks were not just any field goals — they represented a chance for the Bengals to take the lead after erasing a 27-6 deficit (NBC Sports).

Overall, McPherson’s field goal percentage in 2024 has dipped to a concerning 71.4%, a far cry from his career average of 82.7%. For comparison, top kickers like Justin Tucker have maintained a career field-goal percentage above 89%, making McPherson’s recent performances all the more glaring.

It’s worth noting that McPherson isn’t the only NFL kicker struggling this season. A recent CBS article mentioned McPherson among five kickers in 2024 who have posted career-low field-goal percentages. For Bengals fans, however, his impact weighs more heavily as his misses have often come during critical game situations.

Impact on Bengals' Playoff Chances

The Bengals are currently at a crossroads in the 2024 season. With several tight losses, including their recent defeat to the Chargers, each missed opportunity becomes even more significant. McPherson’s struggles are not just personal but affect the entire team. A kicker’s reliability can make or break playoff hopes in the NFL, a league where games are often decided by a single score.

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and the offense have performed remarkably well in several instances this season. However, the team has struggled to secure victories in part due to missed field goals. While McPherson can’t take all the blame for the team's difficulties, it’s clear that his inconsistency is influencing Cincinnati’s ability to clinch key victories as they march toward the postseason.

Responding to Adversity

Despite the setbacks, McPherson has shown resilience. In Week 12 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, he bounced back with a perfect performance, making all four of his field goal attempts, including a game-winning 54-yarder as time expired. This clutch performance not only secured a crucial victory for the Bengals but also demonstrated McPherson's ability to overcome adversity and deliver when it matters most.

Head coach Zac Taylor has expressed continued confidence in McPherson, acknowledging the mental toughness required for his position. As reported by ESPN, Taylor emphasized McPherson's dedication and work ethic, stating, "He's a young kicker who's going to have a long career, and he's going to make a lot of big kicks for us." This vote of confidence from the coaching staff is crucial for McPherson as he navigates the ups and downs of his young career.

Conclusion

Evan McPherson’s 2024 season has been a rollercoaster ride, defined by moments of brilliance, coupled with periods of inconsistency. His missed field goals have raised questions about his reliability under pressure, a concerning sign for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. However, McPherson is a proven competitor and has the tools to bounce back. His recent performance against the Steelers provides a glimmer of hope that he is regaining his form. As the Bengals head into the final stretch of the season, McPherson's performance will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their playoff push.