Trey McBride has quickly risen from a standout college athlete to one of the NFL’s most prolific tight ends with the Arizona Cardinals. Known for his receiving ability, leadership, and record-setting performances, McBride’s journey from Colorado State to NFL stardom is one of the most compelling tight end success stories of the 2020s.
College Career & Breakout at Colorado State
McBride’s football journey began at Colorado State University, where he emerged as one of the most productive tight ends in college football. Standing 6’4” and weighing 246 pounds, he combined size, hands, and athleticism to dominate opposing defenses. In his senior season (2021), McBride recorded 90 receptions for 1,121 yards, leading all FBS tight ends in receiving yards and earning the prestigious John Mackey Award as the nation’s top tight end. He also garnered unanimous All-American honors and was named Mountain West Male Athlete of the Year.
His well-rounded game — featuring strong route running, contested catch ability, and reliable blocking — made him one of the draft’s most intriguing tight end prospects. McBride’s performance at the Senior Bowl and his versatility in both slot and in-line roles boosted his draft stock significantly.
NFL Draft & Early Professional Career
In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals selected Trey McBride with the 55th overall pick in the second round. This marked a turning point for the Cardinals offense, as they secured a play-making tight end to complement their skill players. McBride became the first tight end taken by Arizona in that draft and immediately showed flashes of promise.
McBride’s rookie campaign saw him tally 29 receptions for 265 yards, a solid start that laid the foundation for future growth. He quickly adapted to the pro game and became a reliable target in Arizona’s passing attack.
Contract & Earnings
McBride’s rapid progression earned him one of the most lucrative contracts in NFL tight end history. In April 2025, he signed a four-year, $76 million extension with the Cardinals, making him the highest-paid tight end in the league at that time with an average annual value of $19 million. The contract includes $43 million guaranteed, underscoring Arizona’s commitment to McBride as a cornerstone of their offense.
NFL Career Stats & Achievements
Since entering the NFL, Trey McBride has consistently improved his production year after year:
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2022: 29 receptions, 265 yards, 1 TD
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2023: 81 receptions, 825 yards, 3 TDs.
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2024: Breakout season with 111 receptions for 1,146 yards and multiple Pro Bowl honors.
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2025: Continued elite play with 109 receptions, 1,098 yards, and 10 touchdowns — placing him among the league’s top receiving tight ends.
McBride’s career totals now exceed 330 receptions and over 3,300 receiving yards, demonstrating elite consistency uncommon for his position.
His 2025 campaign in particular was historic, as he set the NFL single-season receptions record for a tight end, highlighting his central role in the Cardinals’ offense.
Impact & Legacy
Trey McBride’s blend of skill, durability, and production has quickly established him as one of the league’s premier tight ends. Multiple Pro Bowl selections showcase his impact at the highest level, while his contract places him among the elite at his position.
From a standout college career at Colorado State to a record-setting professional, McBride’s trajectory demonstrates how smart drafting and player development can transform a team’s offensive identity. As he continues to grow, McBride remains one of the most exciting and valuable tight ends in the NFL today.
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