Trey McBride set a new NFL record for receptions by a tight end in a single season during the Arizona Cardinals’ 37-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. McBride caught his 119th pass of the year, surpassing Zach Ertz’s previous record of 117 set in 2017 with the Philadelphia Eagles. His performance also broke the Cardinals’ franchise record for most catches in a season, previously held by DeAndre Hopkins with 115 in 2020.
Despite McBride’s achievement, the Cardinals struggled throughout the game and were unable to break their eight-game losing streak. The team now holds a 3-13 record after this defeat against the Bengals, who improved to 6-10.
“It’s really cool, and thankful for my teammates and coaches,” McBride said. “It’s cool to get it in 16 games too – I didn’t want anyone to give me a hard time about that. But honestly, it doesn’t really matter. I would’ve loved to have won the game, loved to have played better as an offense. Just wasn’t there today.”
The Cardinals had difficulty sustaining drives, converting only three of thirteen third-down attempts compared to the Bengals’ ten of fifteen. Head coach Jonathan Gannon pointed out third downs as a major issue: “I feel good about the guys going out there,” Gannon said. “We’ve got to coach better so they play better.” He added he was proud of McBride’s accomplishment but acknowledged disappointment with the loss: “I don’t want to overlook that.”
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett finished with 212 passing yards after a late surge but did not reach 100 yards until early in the fourth quarter. The Cardinals managed just 42 rushing yards as a team. On defense, Calais Campbell recorded a sack and Cody Simon notched his first NFL sack.
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow threw for 305 yards and two touchdowns before sitting out much of the fourth quarter. Running back Chase Brown contributed with 101 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Wide receiver Michael Wilson stood out for Arizona with five catches for 89 yards, including a notable 38-yard touchdown reception. Punter Matt Haack averaged over 54 yards per kick.
Injuries affected the Cardinals further as safety Kitan Crawford left with an ankle injury in the second quarter, while wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., targeted only once during the game, exited due to an ongoing heel problem.
Reflecting on his record-setting day amid another loss, McBride said: “I wish I was more excited about it right now. Maybe after the season, looking back, it’ll be something I’ll cherish. But right now, I’m frustrated.”
