Tight end Trey McBride has emerged as a significant player for the Arizona Cardinals, changing the dynamics of their passing game. Historically, tight ends have not been prominent in the Cardinals’ offensive strategy since the team moved to Arizona in 1988. However, McBride’s performance over the past two seasons has altered this trend.
In 2024, McBride recorded 111 receptions for 1,146 yards and secured a four-year contract extension that briefly made him the highest-paid tight end in the league. “Consistency is big for me,” McBride stated. “The great ones do it all the time. It’s no secret anymore what (the coaches) are going to do – they are going to get me the ball.”
The Cardinals’ offense aims to elevate its passing game with McBride as a key receiver. The team also drafted Marvin Harrison Jr., hoping to boost contributions from Michael Wilson and others. Traditionally, tight ends don’t lead teams in receptions often; however, elite players like Travis Kelce have shown that success is possible with such a strategy.
Wilson praised McBride’s abilities: “What makes Trey so dynamic is what he does when the ball is in his hands.” Last season, McBride had 147 targets compared to Harrison’s 116 and Wilson’s 71.
McBride remains flexible about target distribution: “Maybe I have ten catches one game and the next game I have two catches and Marvin has ten catches.” The Cardinals aim to maintain a balanced approach between running and passing plays while leveraging McBride’s skills alongside other receivers.
Coach Jonathan Gannon emphasizes efficiency and flexibility within each game’s unique context. While expectations are high for players like Harrison, Gannon acknowledges that success can come through various offensive strategies.
“They can’t cover us all,” said McBride, reflecting confidence in his team’s diverse offensive capabilities.
