In just his third NFL season, Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride is rapidly ascending into the top tier at his position. The 2022 second-round pick out of Colorado State has emerged as a focal point of the Cardinals offense, showcasing his abilities as a receiver and blocker while regularly making highlight-reel plays.
A Versatile Weapon in the Passing Game
Through eight weeks, McBride leads the Cardinals in receptions (42) and receiving yards (446). His route-running, speed, elusiveness after the catch, and ability to make contested grabs have made him quarterback Kyler Murray’s go-to target.
Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon praised McBride as a “big-time weapon” and “three-level receiver,” while offensive coordinator Drew Petzing highlighted his versatility and ability to make plays with the ball in his hands.
McBride’s athleticism was on full display in Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins. On a 37-yard catch-and-run, he made a leaping grab on a back-shoulder throw, spun around to maintain his balance, then hurdled a defender before finally being brought down. The play encapsulated everything that makes McBride special.
Elite Production and Efficiency
The numbers back up the eye test when it comes to McBride’s ascendance. Among NFL tight ends, he ranks in the top three in:
- Targets (2nd)
- Receptions (2nd)
- Receiving yards (3rd)
- Yards per route run (3rd)
- Targets per route run (2nd)
- Team target share (1st)
- Receiving first downs (3rd)
Of McBride’s 42 catches, 17 have gone for gains of 11+ yards, with 21 total moving the chains for first downs. He consistently makes big plays when targeted.
Earning Respect from Peers
McBride’s stellar play has earned the respect and attention of the NFL’s elite tight ends. This past offseason, he was invited to Tight End University, a gathering of the league’s top players at the position organized by Travis Kelce, George Kittle and Greg Olsen.
It’s also cool to see that those tight ends know who I am. They respect me and admire my game, as well. So, I think that’s really cool to have some respect from other tight ends around the league.
Trey McBride on earning the respect of his peers
McBride soaked up knowledge from the veteran stars, discussing route-running and blocking techniques with Kelce and others. He returned to Cardinals training camp with a noticeable boost in confidence.
A Bright Future in Arizona
With his breakout 2024 campaign, McBride has established himself as the Cardinals’ long-term answer at tight end and one of the most promising young players in the NFL. His rapport with Murray and ability to impact the game as both a receiver and blocker point to perennial Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors in his future.
As opposing defenses start to key on limiting his production, the onus will be on McBride to continue refining his craft and finding ways to make plays for a Cardinals squad with playoff aspirations. If the first half of the 2024 season is any indication, the 25-year-old is more than up to the challenge of joining the NFL’s upper echelon of tight ends for years to come.
