Who Should I Start? Evan McPherson or Ryan Fitzgerald

Saturday, October 4, 2:13 PM

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson has been a victim of the team's offensive struggles in 2025. While he has yet to miss a kick, McPherson has only four attempts through four games, ranking 28th among all kickers. The Bengals' offense has been one of the least efficient in the NFL, sitting 30th in points per game (15.3), last in total yards per game (205.3), and dead last in time of possession (25:32). Simply put, McPherson isn't getting opportunities. The Week 5 matchup doesn't offer much upside either, as the Detroit Lions have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to kickers this season. With backup Jake Browning leading the Bengals' offense, scoring chances are unlikely to improve. McPherson remains a reliable kicker in terms of accuracy, but the lack of volume makes him unplayable in fantasy. He should be left out of starting lineups in Week 5.

Tuesday, August 26, 12:17 AM

Carolina Panthers kicker Ryan Fitzgerald has won the kicking job after the team released Matthew Wright, according to Joe Person of The Athletic. The undrafted rookie out of Florida State went 3-for-3 on field goals and also converted his lone extra point attempt through three preseason games. He enjoyed similar success at school, going 13-for-13 on field goals during his final collegiate campaign in 2024. Although the Panthers' offense is trending up, Fitzgerald lacks fantasy appeal at the moment, especially as a rookie with no track record kicking at the professional level.