What to expect from Bengals rookies in Week 1 vs. Vikings

The most important rookie for the Cincinnati Bengals might be called upon in the most critical moments.

When the preseason began, not many people would have guessed that Evan McPherson would be the rookie that fans were most confident in, but after a terrific preseason camp, there is no question that McPherson is the Bengals’ kicker moving forward.

Kicker has been a position that, across the NFL, has had an increased amount of focus. Usually, if the kicker does their job nobody thinks twice. But in close games, the pressure all comes down to the leg of the kicker.

Cincinnati was in their fair share of close games last season and ended up not being able to win many. Not to say that this was the fault of the kicker, but having someone the team trusts and can rely on makes a huge difference in playcalling and outcome.

McPherson will take on kickoff duty as well as kick extra points and field goals. Fans are hoping that he stays plenty busy in his first regular-season game. And if this game is close, the hopes of Cincinnati could rest on the right leg of the rookie.

As the season progresses, McPherson is the rookie that I feel most confident in contributing to this team and helping secure wins. Hopefully, other players match his level, but for now, he stands alone as the rookie ready to have the biggest impact.