Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson is the odd man out among his kicking compatriots in the AFC North. Compared to the likes of Ravens' Justin Tucker, 34, Steelers' Chris Boswell, 33, and Browns' Dustin Hopkins, 33, who just received a big payday, McPherson is the youngest at 24 and the lowest paid.
McPherson is entering the last year of his four-year rookie contract valued at $3.8 million and will be either a free agent or looking to the Bengals for an extension in 2025. His kicking counterparts make more in one year than he will in four years.
The best way for McPherson to increase his market value is to have an outstanding 2024 season. By doing so, he could boost his annual pay to $2-3 million per year. It seems unlikely he will get in the $5-6 million Tucker, Boswell, and Hopkins range in his next deal because he does not yet have their longevity or reputation.
In the long term, McPherson is in a good position because the NFL's highest paid kickers are predominantly in their 30s. His age will benefit him as these kicking legends potentially start stepping away from the game in the next few years.