After the bye week, McPherson revealed that he’s actually apologized to guys like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase for letting them down. In the process, he also revealed that it’s Chase who has come to his defense the most.

Evan McPherson #2 of the Cincinnati Bengals reacts after a missed field goal attempt against the Los Angeles Chargers during the fourth quarter at SoFi Stadium on November 17, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

That night at SoFi Stadium, McPherson failed kicks from 48 and 51 yards, respectively. The 51-yarder would have broken a 27-27 tie with less than two minutes to play. Instead, it factored heavily in the Bengals' failed comeback attempt from down 21 points on the road.

Bengals Kicker Evan McPherson has missed kicks in four different one score losses this season: Earlier this year, special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons admitted that the operation of the kick has been part of the problem. McPherson is on his fourth holder in as many seasons.

Of the many problems plaguing the Cincinnati Bengals, Evan McPherson's inaccuracy from deep is perhaps the most nerve-wracking. Long gone feel the days of McPherson being automatic from 50 yards or more to advance the Bengals to the promise land.

Struggling Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson says Ja'Marr Chase has his back and offered words of encouragement when the players returned from the bye.

Evan McPherson has been one of the Cincinnati Bengals' most important players since they drafted him in the fifth round in 2021.