Evan McPherson Bio
Evan McPherson is an American professional football placekicker for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 21, 1999, in Fort Payne, Alabama, he played college football for the Florida Gators before being drafted by the Bengals in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft. Known for his clutch kicking, McPherson quickly became a key player for the Bengals, earning recognition for his record-setting postseason performances.
Early Life and Background
McPherson began his football career at Fort Payne High School in Fort Payne, Alabama, where he was the team’s kicker and punter for four seasons. He achieved notable feats such as a 60-yard field goal and an 84-yard punt, both just shy of Alabama high school records. His outstanding performance earned him first-team All-State honors in 2017.
Path to American Football
After high school, McPherson played college football for the Florida Gators from 2018 to 2020. During his collegiate career, he set a Southeastern Conference record for career field goal percentage, successfully making 51 of 60 attempts. He also excelled in extra points, converting 149 of 150 attempts. His college tenure included a 29–9 team record and a victory in the 2019 Orange Bowl, where he made all three field goal attempts.
Evan McPherson Career
Early Career (2021–Present)
McPherson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft, the only kicker selected that year. He signed a four-year rookie contract and quickly secured the starting kicker position after an impressive preseason performance. In his NFL debut, he made a 53-yard field goal and a game-winning 33-yard kick in overtime, earning AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.
Cincinnati Bengals Breakthrough (2021–Present)
During the 2021 season, McPherson set multiple franchise records, including the longest field goal at 58 yards and most 50-yard field goals in a season. He tied the NFL record for most field goals made in a single postseason with 14, achieving this without a miss. His postseason performance included perfect field goal accuracy in multiple games, culminating in a game-winning field goal in overtime during the AFC Championship Game that sent the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI.
Cincinnati Bengals Era (2021–Present)
McPherson has remained with the Bengals since his draft, signing a three-year, $16.5 million contract extension in 2024. Despite some struggles with missed kicks in the 2024 season, he set a franchise record with a 63-yard field goal in 2025. His consistent performance has earned him multiple AFC Special Teams Player of the Week awards, and he continues to be a vital contributor to the Bengals’ special teams unit.
Driving Style and Strengths
McPherson is known for his strong leg and accuracy, particularly on long-distance field goals. His ability to perform under pressure has earned him nicknames like “Shooter” and “Money Mac.” His strategic approach and reliability make him a trusted asset in critical game moments.
Notable Events and Milestones
McPherson’s record-setting 14 field goals in the 2021 postseason, all without a miss, established him as one of the most clutch kickers in NFL history. His 63-yard field goal in 2025 set a new franchise record for the Bengals.
Evan McPherson Career Wins
McPherson has contributed significantly to the Bengals’ victories through his precise kicking, including game-winning field goals and consistent scoring in both regular season and playoff games.
NFL Highlights
Since joining the NFL in 2021, McPherson has been recognized for his accuracy and distance, setting franchise records and earning multiple AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. His perfect postseason kicking in 2021 remains a standout achievement.
Other Wins & Performances
Beyond the NFL, McPherson’s collegiate success at Florida included setting a Southeastern Conference record for field goal percentage and contributing to an Orange Bowl victory.
Evan McPherson Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
McPherson comes from a family with a strong kicking tradition. His older brother Logan was an all-state kicker and punter at Louisiana Tech University, while his younger brother Alex also earned all-state honors and committed to Auburn University.
Personal Life
Evan McPherson is married to Gracie Groat, and they have one child. He is a practicing Christian and maintains a close connection to his family and faith.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, McPherson set a Bengals franchise record with a 63-yard field goal. He demonstrated consistency by converting all six field goal attempts and two extra points in a key victory against the Baltimore Ravens, earning AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. His performance continues to be integral to the Bengals’ special teams success and playoff aspirations.