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. After an impressive collegiate career, he was drafted by the Bengals in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft. McPherson gained recognition for his clutch performances during the Bengals’ playoff run in 2021, tying the record for most field goals made in a single postseason and becoming the first player in history to achieve this without a miss. Nicknamed ‘Shooter’ and ‘Money Mac’ for his consistent performance, he continues to be a standout player in the league.
Early Life and Background
Evan McPherson started his football career at Fort Payne High School in Fort Payne, Alabama, where he spent four seasons as the team’s kicker and punter. At Fort Payne, McPherson made a 60-yard field goal and an 84-yard punt, both kicks being one yard short of the Alabama high school record. He also earned first-team All-State honors in 2017, showcasing his talent early on. Following his high school success, he went on to play college football for the Florida Gators from 2018 to 2020.
Path to American Football
During his time at the University of Florida, McPherson established himself as a premier kicker. He finished his college career with a remarkable field goal percentage of 85.0%, which set a Southeastern Conference record for career field goal percentage with a minimum of 50 attempts. He made 51 of 60 field goal attempts and was 149 of 150 on extra points. His performance contributed to the Gators’ 29–9 record over three seasons, including a victory in the Orange Bowl in 2019. McPherson’s impressive collegiate statistics and accolades paved the way for his entry into the NFL.
Evan McPherson Career
Early Career (2021)
Evan McPherson was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round, 149th overall, of the 2021 NFL draft, making him the only kicker drafted that year. He signed his four-year rookie contract with the Bengals on May 17, 2021. During the preseason, McPherson showcased his skills by converting all five of his field goal attempts, including a notable 57-yard kick. This performance led to him being named the starter for the regular season, making him the first player from Fort Payne High School to play in an NFL regular season game.
Breakthrough (2021)
McPherson’s breakout moment came during the Bengals’ playoff run in 2021. He made a significant impact by tying Adam Vinatieri for the most field goals made in a single postseason, with 14, and setting the record for the most postseason field goals made without any misses. His clutch kicking was instrumental in the Bengals’ victories, including a game-winning 33-yard field goal in overtime against the Minnesota Vikings in the season opener. He also set franchise records for the most 50-yard field goals made in a season and the longest field goal in Bengals history with a 58-yard kick against the Denver Broncos.
Notable Works and Milestones
McPherson’s signature work includes his performance in the Bengals’ playoff games, where he became the first kicker in NFL history to kick at least four field goals in multiple games during the same postseason. His 14-of-14 playoff field goals set the record for most field goals made by a rookie and tied the all-time record for most field goals made in a single postseason.
Evan McPherson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Evan McPherson has received recognition for his outstanding performances, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2021.
Evan McPherson Awards Won
Evan McPherson has achieved significant milestones in his career, including multiple AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors and setting franchise records for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Evan McPherson Family
Evan McPherson is married to Gracie Groat, and they have one child together. His family has a strong football background, with his older brother Logan being an all-state kicker and his younger brother Alex also excelling in kicking at Fort Payne High School.
Personal Life
McPherson is a Christian and maintains a private personal life outside of football. His family connections to the sport have played a significant role in his development as a player, and he continues to represent his hometown with pride.
