Trey McBride Fantasy Overview

2024 Summary

Production & Fantasy Finishes

McBride finished the season with 147 targets (2nd among TEs), 111 catches (2nd), and 1,146 receiving yards (2nd).

Though he only scored 2 TDs (T-25th), he still posted 243.8 PPR points (TE2) and 15.2 points per game (TE3).

He delivered 12 top-12 finishes, 9 top-5 finishes, and only two games outside the top 20, providing elite consistency at a volatile position.

Usage & Role

McBride was the focal point of Arizona’s passing game, leading all TEs with a 28.2% target share and 33.6% first-read rate.

He ran routes 51.9% from the slot and 39.9% in-line, giving him WR-like deployment.

He also averaged 9.2 targets and 6.9 receptions per game, both tops among TEs.

Efficiency Metrics

McBride’s usage was elite, and his efficiency backed it up:

• 2.14 yards per route (3rd among TEs)
• 86.8 PFF receiving grade (2nd)
• 4.7 yards after catch per reception (25th)

His 34 red-zone targets (1st) and nine end-zone targets (T-4th) show massive scoring opportunity, even if his actual 1-of-9 conversion rate on end-zone targets (11.1%) lagged well behind the league average.

Offensive Context

Arizona finished 12th in total plays and operated with increasing pass rate post-bye, shifting from a -5.1% to +6.7% pass rate over expected. McBride thrived through both phases, benefiting from Arizona’s top-10 pass-blocking line and a Kyler Murray-led offense that emphasizes quick reads and mismatches.

The system routinely prioritized McBride in the short to intermediate range, particularly on third downs.

With more red zone work, McBride’s usage in the offense becomes elite.

Injury History

McBride suffered a concussion early in the season, but he did not miss any games.

He has never missed an NFL game due to injury.

2025 Expectations

Projected Role & Competition

McBride enters 2025 as the Cardinals’ top pass-catcher, even with WR Marvin Harrison Jr. onboard.

Behind him is TE Tip Reiman, whose role mostly centers around blocking, and Elijah Higgins as the backup receiving TE option.

The Cardinals made no significant additions to the WR room with Michael Wilson and Zay Jones returning.

Supporting Cast

QB Kyler Murray leads the group of returning skill players looking to take the next step. The offense increased in pass rate late in the season as Murray showed progression in that area.

Murray had the lowest rush rate of his career. If that continues into 2025, it should mean more passes to his top weapons.

All five OL starters return in OTs Paris Johnson Jr. and Jonah Williams and interior linemen Evan Brown, Hjalte Froholdt, and Isaiah Adams.

Last year, the OL had a 60% pass block win rate (16th) and 72% run blocking win rate (11th).

Coaching & Offensive Scheme

OC Drew Petzing's system blended horizontal spacing with occasional deep shots and leaned heavily on yards after catch.

The Cardinals ranked 21st in the NFL in total plays and 19th in pace.

Their pass rate was only 22nd in the NFL, but they were 11th in neutral pass rate.