Trey McBride caught 12 of 13 targets for a career-high 134 yards and two touchdowns.

Record-breaking effort Sunday

McBride caught 12 of 13 targets for 134 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 40-20 loss to the Texans.

Analysis: The 134 yards were a career high for McBride, while the two scores got him to 10 on the season, the first time he's reached double digits. Those milestones paled in comparison to the new NFL records for tight ends he set with the performance -- he's the first TE in history with consecutive 100-reception seasons, and he's caught at least five passes in 16 straight games, breaking the mark of 15 straight held by Travis Kelce. McBride almost certainly isn't done yet in 2025, either. With 105…read more

Modest totals in losing effort

McBride had five receptions on nine targets for 58 yards in Sunday's 45-17 loss to the Rams.

Analysis: McBride was held in check -- by his own lofty standards -- in a matchup against a tough defense Sunday. The 25-year-old still finished with decent receiving numbers and extended his streak of catching at least five passes in every game this season. McBride continues to operate as one of the top fantasy tight ends in football, producing a 93-937-8 receiving line through 13 starts. The Texans present another tough matchup on paper next Sunday, but McBride's talent overrides any potential…read more

Paces pass catchers in loss

McBride brought in eight of nine targets for 82 yards and a touchdown in the Cardinals' 20-17 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: Despite Marvin Harrison's return from a two-game absence due to an appendectomy, McBride remained highly involved as customary and finished the afternoon leading the Cardinals across the board in receptions, receiving yards and targets. The standout tight end also came down with his eighth touchdown grab of the season on a 15-yard grab with just under five minutes remaining in the game, which served as the final points of the day for either squad. McBride has at least eight receptions and 79…read more

Nine catches in OT loss

McBride corralled nine of 10 targets for 79 yards in Sunday's 27-24 overtime loss to the Jaguars.

Analysis: McBride wasn't able extend his scoring streak to a sixth straight contest, which turned out to be the only blemish on another strong fantasy outing in Week 12. The star tight end utilized the overtime period to tack on a pair of short receptions in order to create a new personal streak of recording nine or more catches, which currently sits at three games. McBride has gone on an absolute tear since Jacoby Brissett took over under center for an injured Kyler Murray (foot) back in Week 6. The…read more

Extends TD streak to five games

McBride finished with 10 receptions on 11 targets for 115 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 41-22 loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: McBride continued his ridiculous hot streak by hitting pay dirt in his fifth straight contest while also recording his second consecutive 100-yard game. The 25-year-old somehow did not finish as the Cardinals' leading receiver, as that honor went to WR Michael Wilson (15-185-0) in a game during which QB Jacoby Brissett set an NFL regular-season record with 47 completed passes in a single game. McBride has been a fantasy beast in 2025, generating 71 receptions, 718 yards and seven touchdowns for…read more

Goes off against SEA

McBride finished with nine receptions on 13 targets for 127 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 44-22 loss to the Seahawks.

Analysis: McBride turned in his finest performance of the year in the Cardinals' ugliest loss of the season. Most fantasy managers couldn't care less about the game result after the stud tight end went off for his first 100-plus-yard game of 2025. McBride continued his newfound prowess in the red zone with QB Jacoby Brissett under center, nabbing his fifth touchdown (sixth overall) in the four games the veteran backup has started. The 25-year-old McBride will look to continue feasting against an…read more

Scoring binge continues on MNF

McBride corralled five of nine targets for 55 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 27-17 win over the Cowboys.

Analysis: McBride found himself back in the end zone just two weeks after setting a new career high in touchdowns with a multi-score effort against the Packers. The PPR monster had historically struggled in the red zone over the first three years of his career, but he has addressed that deficiency by hitting pay dirt four times in his last three appearances. McBride entered rare air with Monday's stat line, joining current and former legends Travis Kelce and Tony Gonzalez as the only tight ends in NFL…read more

Two trips to end zone against Pack

McBride caught 10 of 13 targets for 74 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-23 loss to the Packers.

Analysis: The fourth-year tight end hasn't missed a beat with Jacoby Brissett under center instead of Kyler Murray (foot). McBride hauled in scores of 15 yards in the second quarter and 12 yards in the third, and through two games working with Brissett, he's delivered an 18-146-3 line on 24 targets as Arizona's clear No. 1 downfield option. With the Cardinals on bye in Week 8, Murray could get enough time to recover, but no matter who he's catching passes from, McBride could be poised for another…read more

Highly productive in Week 6 loss

McBride secured eight of 11 targets for 72 yards and a touchdown in the Cardinals' 31-27 loss to the Colts on Sunday.

Analysis: McBride finished as the Cardinals' leader in receptions and targets and checked in just behind Zay Jones in receiving yards while working with Jacoby Brissett as his quarterback in the absence of Kyler Murray (foot). The veteran tight end's reception and yardage totals also were new season highs, and his target tally tied a high-water mark he'd reached two games prior against the Seahawks. Despite the superior production and his second TD catch of the season, McBride's day ended in frustration…read more

Limited to 41 yards

McBride recorded five receptions on seven targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 22-21 loss to the Titans.

Analysis: The Cardinals' offense completely stalled in the second half, with Kyler Murray throwing for only 78 yards in the final two quarters. That led to a muted stat line for McBride, who still led the team in targets and was tied for the lead in receptions. However, his longest catch of the day went for only 12 yards, and he's now been held below 55 yards in each of his last three games.

Team-high catch total in loss

McBride secured seven of 11 targets for 52 yards in the Cardinals' 23-20 loss to the Seahawks on Thursday night.

Analysis: McBride led the Cardinals in receptions and targets while finishing second to Marvin Harrison in receiving yards. The star tight end has topped out at a relatively modest 78 receiving yards over the first four games, but he hasn't recorded less than five catches or logged fewer than seven targets in any contest. McBride's production has been arguably capped to an extent by Kyler Murray's uneven play under center, yet the former could have a good opportunity for his first breakout game of 2025…read more

Hits pay dirt in loss Sunday

McBride had five receptions on eight targets for 43 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 16-15 loss to San Francisco.

Analysis: McBride led all Cardinals in targets and receptions while hauling in Kyler Murray's only touchdown pass in Sunday's narrow loss. The 25-year-old McBride didn't waste much time cracking the end zone this season after needing 15 starts to catch his first touchdown in 2024. McBride is proving to be a consistent fantasy producer at the tight end position, carrying a 17-182-1 receiving line into a Week 4 matchup against the Seahawks on Thursday Night Football.

Leading receiver on seven targets

McBride corralled six of seven targets for 78 yards in Sunday's 27-22 win over the Panthers.

Analysis: McBride finished as the Cardinals' leading receiver after ceding that honor to WR Marvin Harrison in Week 1. The 25-year-old McBride has racked up six receptions in each of his two starts so far, putting him on pace for another 100-plus reception season following last year's breakout 111-catch campaign. McBride's allergy to the end zone (career high of three TDs in 2023) is what holds him back from breaking the fantasy stratosphere. The Colorado State product is still a PPR monster and a TE1…read more

Six grabs in Week 1 win

McBride caught six of nine targets for 61 yards in Sunday's 20-13 win over the Saints.

Analysis: He led the Cardinals in receptions, but it was Marvin Harrison who produced a team-high 71 receiving yards. McBride is coming off a massive 2024 campaign in which he posted a 111-1,146-2 line on 147 targets, and while a breakout season from Harrison could cut into the tight end's volume, Arizona's target tree figures to be narrow. McBride will look to stay productive at home in Week 2 against the Panthers.

Big gain on one reception

McBride brought in his only target for 21 yards during the Cardinals' 20-17 preseason win over the Chiefs on Saturday night.

Analysis: The talented tight end was on the receiving end of Kyler Murray's longest completion of the night, kickstarting Arizona's second drive. McBride, who signed a four-year, $76 million extension in April, is ticketed for another massive role again in 2025 after recording 111 receptions for 1,146 yards and two touchdowns across 16 regular-season contests last season.

Lands four-year extension

McBride agreed to a four-year contract extension with the Cardinals on Thursday, Darren Urban of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: McBride thus is under contract with Arizona through the 2029 season. Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, the 25 year-old's $76 million deal includes $43 million guaranteed and an average annual value of $19 million, the highest ever for any NFL tight end. This past season, the 2022 second-rounder caught a career-high 111 passes (on 147 targets) for 1,146 yards and two TDs in 16 regular-season contests, a level of production that makes him an elite fantasy option at his position ahead of the upcoming NFL…read more

Catches another touchdown

McBride brought in seven of 11 targets for 65 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 47-24 win versus the 49ers.

Analysis: After failing to reach the end zone via a pass in each of his first 14 appearances of the campaign, McBride capped the season with TD catches in back-to-back games. He also paced the Cardinals in receptions (111), targets (147) and receiving yards (1,146), all of which ranked second to rookie sensation Brock Bowers among tight ends in the entire NFL. At least at the conclusion of this season, McBride is the clear top pass catcher for Arizona, but 2024 first-round pick Marvin Harrison (62-885-8…read more

Rollercoaster night in loss

McBride brought in 12 of 16 targets for 123 yards and a touchdown in the Cardinals' 13-9 loss to the Rams on Saturday night.

Analysis: McBride paced the Cardinals in receptions, receiving yards and targets while also finally scoring his first receiving touchdown of the season on a one-yard grab to cap off the first drive of the second half. However, the star tight end also had a Kyler Murray pass bounce off his helmet just short of the goal line with 42 seconds remaining, leading to a game-sealing interception. McBride crossed both the 100-catch and 1,000-yard mark for the season with Saturday's stellar output, which included…read more

Lowest fantasy output this season

McBride had three receptions on four targets for 20 yards in Sunday's 36-30 overtime loss to the Panthers.

Analysis: McBride saw his usage plummet in Week 16 after finishing fifth in receiving yards for Arizona while tying his season low in targets (four). The PPR monster didn't live up to the billing for managers in the fantasy playoffs, with Sunday's output (5.0 points in PPR formats) marking his lowest through 16 starts in 2024. To add insult to injury, the third-year man remains without a receiving touchdown despite recording 92 receptions on the year. Expect better results from McBride in Week 17 in a…read more

Leading receiver on 10 targets

McBride corralled nine of 10 targets for 87 yards in Sunday's 30-17 win over the Patriots.

Analysis: McBride continued his dominance in between the 20s with another big PPR effort that resulted in no touchdowns. The 24-year-old has shockingly recorded 89 receptions for 938 yards with zero trips to the end zone in 13 starts this season. It will be curious to see if the budding tight end will reach the 1,000-yard receiving mark or score his first touchdown of 2024 first. We could find out the answer when McBride and the Cardinals face the Panthers next Sunday.

Good to go for Week 15

McBride (knee) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: A limited practice participant earlier in the week, McBride upgraded to full participation Friday, suggesting he should be ready for his usual, target-hogging role in a matchup with New England's subpar defense. He still hasn't scored a receiving TD this season but ranks top two among tight ends in catches, yards and targets.

Good to go for Week 15

McBride (knee) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: A limited practice participant earlier in the week, McBride upgraded to full participation Friday, suggesting he should be ready for his usual, target-hogging role in a matchup with New England's subpar defense. He still hasn't scored a receiving TD this season but ranks top two among tight ends in catches, yards and targets.

Stays limited Thursday

McBride (knee) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: McBride so far is operating with a cap on his reps during Week 15 prep, and he'll have one more chance Friday to get back to full participation before the Cardinals potentially give him a designation for Sunday's contest against the Patriots. Since Arizona's Week 11 bye, he's been running on all cylinders over the last three games, gathering in 31 of 41 targets for 299 yards, but he hasn't yet recorded a receiving TD through 12 outings this season.

Tending to knee issue

McBride practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday due to a knee injury, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Since the Cardinals' Week 11 bye, McBride has received double-digit targets in each of the team's three games, accruing a 31-299-0 line on 41 targets during that stretch. Now with a health concern in tow, his status will be one to monitor as Arizona prepares for Sunday's matchup with the Patriots.

Seven-catch second half in Week 14

McBride caught seven of 14 targets for 70 yards in Sunday's 30-18 loss to the Seahawks

Analysis: After producing 12 catches in each of his previous two games, including in Week 12 against Seattle, McBride was blanked on three first-half targets. He returned to his productive ways in the second half to finish with the team lead in targets, catches and receiving yards. McBride has secured his second consecutive 80-catch season with 80 receptions for 851 yards heading into a Week 15 home game against the Patriots.

Nearly hits century mark Sunday

McBride caught all 12 of his targets for 96 yards in Sunday's 23-22 loss to the Vikings.

Analysis: The Cardinals' running game struggled early, forcing Kyler Murray to turn to McBride instead to stay ahead of the sticks. The third-year tight end tied his season high in receptions while leading Arizona in receiving yards, and over the last five games he's cemented himself as Murray's top read, racking up 40 catches on 47 targets for 459 yards. Despite the massive volume though, McBride is still looking for his first touchdown of 2024. He'll try to end his scoring drought in Week 14 against…read more

Records season-high 12 receptions

McBride produced 12 catches (on 15 targets) for 133 yards and no touchdowns during Sunday's 16-6 defeat at Seattle.

Analysis: McBride was the lone bright spot for the Cardinals offense on an afternoon in which just one teammate surpassed 50 yards from scrimmage (WR Michael Wilson's 54, all through the air). As the focal point of the team's passing game, McBride recorded his second 100-yard performance in 10 appearances this season, but he remains in search of his first touchdown. He'll aim to continue his momentum next Sunday in Minnesota.

Gains 71 yards Sunday

McBride caught four of five targets for 71 yards in Sunday's 31-6 rout of the Jets.

Analysis: McBride didn't replicate his anomalous rushing touchdown from a week prior, but he continued to operate as one of Kyler Murray's favorite targets in Sunday's victory. The 24-year-old McBride has accrued a 49-552-0 line (plus a two-yard rushing TD) through nine starts as Arizona enters its bye week. McBride will likely continue being a reliable fantasy tight end when the Cardinals resume play against the Seahawks on Nov. 24.

Tallies rushing score

McBride gathered in three of four targets for 35 yards and had a two-yard rushing touchdown during Sunday's 29-9 win versus the Bears.

Analysis: The third-year pro's first career rush resulted in an end-zone visit for the Cardinals' initial tally of the contest. His target count, while below his norm of 8.0 per game, ranked second on the team to rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison's five. Game script allowed Arizona to play keep away from Chicago, as the Cards cranked out 34 carries versus just 20 Kyler Murray pass attempts. McBride will look to bounce back as a pass catcher next Sunday against the Jets.

Puts up big numbers in win

McBride finished with nine receptions (11 targets) for 124 yards in Sunday's 28-27 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: McBride took his ceiling to a new level after cracking the century mark in receiving yards for the first time this season Sunday. The 24-year-old has yet to score a touchdown this year, but that is the only thing holding the tight end back from becoming a must-start asset. McBride remains a strong play heading into next Sunday's tilt against Chicago.

Leads team with seven targets

McBride had five receptions (on seven targets) for 51 yards in Monday's 17-15 win over the Chargers.

Analysis: McBride led the Cardinals in both targets and receptions Monday, serving as quarterback Kyler Murray's favorite target. Backup tight end Greg Dortch cashed in Arizona's lone receiving touchdown on the evening, but the 24-year-old McBride still posted solid numbers for the third game running since returning from a one-game absence Week 4. Managers should feel confident playing McBride against the Dolphins in Week 8.

Busiest game of season

McBride brought in all eight targets for 96 yards in the Cardinals' 34-13 loss to the Packers on Sunday.

Analysis: With Marvin Harrison exiting the game with a concussion in the second quarter, McBride operated as Kyler Murray's top target on the afternoon. In the process, the third-year tight end set new season highs in receptions and receiving yards while drawing his second-highest target total of the campaign. McBride now has at least six catches in three of his past four games, which leaves him trending in the right direction for a Week 7 Monday night home matchup against the Chargers on Oct. 21.

Returns to lead team in targets

McBride (ribs) turned nine targets into six receptions for 53 yards in Sunday's 24-23 win over San Francisco.

Analysis: McBride overcame a pair of health roadblocks (one of which had cost him a week of action) to return to Arizona's starting lineup against the 49ers in Week 5. The 2022 second-round pick wound up leading his team in targets while producing a solid fantasy line for managers in Sunday's upset victory. McBride is averaging four receptions and 43.8 yards in four active games this season, making him a reliable option at a shallow position heading into next Sunday's tilt against Green Bay.

Active as expected Sunday

McBride (ribs) is active for Sunday's Week 5 matchup against the 49ers.

Analysis: McBride had an eventful week as it pertains to his health following a Week 4 absence due to a concussion, managing to clear protocol while practicing in full both Thursday and Friday and entering the weekend sans an injury designation. However, McBride was added to the injury report Saturday with a ribs injury, but subsequent reporting indicated the talented tight end was in line to suit up Sunday. With his active status now official, McBride will slide back into his unquestioned No. 1…read more

In line to suit up Sunday

McBride (ribs) is listed as questionable but is expected to play Sunday versus San Francisco, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: McBride missed Week 4 against Washington while in concussion protocol but was able to return to full practice sessions Thursday and Friday during Week 5 prep. However, he surprisingly popped back up on the injury report Saturday due to an injury to his ribs and was given a questionable tag. Despite the fact that he's now nursing a new injury, McBride looks like he will be able to play through the issue Sunday, ensuring that the Cardinals have one of their top pass catchers for a key NFC West…read more

Questionable with rib injury

The Cardinals list McBride as questionable for Sunday's game against the 49ers due to a rib injury.

Analysis: McBride cleared concussion protocol earlier this week after missing the team's Week 4 loss to the Commanders, but despite being a full participant in practice Thursday and Friday, he apparently picked up a rib injury at some point along the way. Elijah Higgins was the de facto starting tight end in his absence last week and would likely see most of the playing time if McBride were to miss a second straight game. Expect more clarity on McBride's status to emerge when the Cardinals release their…read more

Removed from injury report

McBride (concussion) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game at San Francisco, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: McBride cleared concussion protocol and managed full practice participation both Thursday and Friday. He's back in as one of Kyler Murray's top targets after missing a Week 4 loss to the Commanders.

Expected to play

Coach Jonathan Gannon said Friday that McBride (concussion) will play Sunday at San Francisco, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: It sounds like McBride has either cleared concussion protocol or is on track to do so at some point Friday. He missed a Week 4 loss to Washington after suffering a concussion in a loss to the Lions a week prior.

Full practice Thursday

McBride (concussion) practiced fully Thursday, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: After opening the week as limited Wednesday, McBride returned to full participation one day later. Per Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site, McBride also didn't have on a yellow non-contact jersey while running routes and catching passes from QB Kyler Murray, signifying that he's closing in on emerging from the concussion protocol. Clearance from an independent neurologist awaits for McBride, though, so his listing on Friday's injury report will be telling in that regard. The third-year…read more

Officially limited Wednesday

McBride (concussion) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Zach Gershman of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Head coach Jonathan Gannon told Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com earlier Wednesday that McBride was in line to practice and added that the tight end would be coming out of the protocol for head injuries. Considering McBride operated with practice limitations, he's still embedded in the protocol, but Gershman noted that the 24-year-old wasn't wearing a yellow non-contact jersey, indicating he at least can take hits. McBride will need to gain clearance from an independent neurologist in order to play…read more

Returning to practice Wednesday

Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said Wednesday that McBride (concussion) is slated to practice, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Gannon indicated that McBride will be "coming out of the concussion protocol," but it's unclear whether the standout tight end has yet gained full clearance. In any case, McBride getting back on the practice field represents a positive step forward after he was forced to miss Arizona's 42-14 loss to the Commanders in Week 4. McBride will still need to gain clearance from an independent neurologist before exiting the protocol and potentially suiting up Sunday in San Francisco.

Still in concussion protocol

Coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged Monday that McBride remains in the concussion protocol, but he's "looking good" in his recovery, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: McBride sustained a concussion during the Cardinals' Week 3 loss to the Lions, and he wasn't able to practice last week before the team ruled him out ahead of this past Sunday's game against the Commanders. Arizona won't reconvene for practice until Wednesday, when the team will post its first injury report of Week 5. At that point, McBride's ability, or lack thereof, to take part in drills may forecast his odds to suit up Sunday at San Francisco. In McBride's place Week 4, TEs Elijah Higgins…read more

Out this week

McBride (concussion) will not play Sunday against the Commanders, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Coach Jonathan Gannon made the announcement Friday morning, with McBride still unable to practice after taking a big hit and entering concussion protocol during last week's 20-13 loss to the Lions. McBride's Week 4 absence leaves Elijah Higgins and Tip Reiman as Arizona's top tight ends, with Higgins being more likely to draw enough targets to generate fantasy interest.

Still not practicing

McBride (concussion) didn't participate in Thursday's practice, Zach Gershman of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: McBride's lack of involvement Thursday doesn't come as much of a surprise after he wasn't present during the media-access portion of the session, per Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic. The third-year pro thus seems to be trending in the wrong direction due to the fact he hasn't made any noticeable progress through the concussion protocol. Ultimately, the Cardinals may make a ruling on McBride's availability on Friday's injury report ahead of Sunday's game against the Commanders. If he…read more

Not seen at Thursday's practice

McBride (concussion) wasn't spotted during the part of Thursday's practice open to the media, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: If McBride indeed goes down as a non-participant for a second day in a row, he'll have just one more chance for on-field reps during Week 4 prep. On top of that, he'll have significantly reduced odds to make his way through the protocol for head injuries ahead of Sunday's contest against the Commanders. Elijah Higgins and Tip Reiman are on hand to handle TE reps for the Cardinals if McBride misses any game action.

No practice Wednesday

McBride (concussion) was a non-participant at Wednesday's practice, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: McBride's lack of activity just three days after he suffered a concussion comes as no surprise, but he also was seen walking about and joking around with his teammates in the locker room, per Mackie. Until McBride makes some notable progress through the five-step concussion protocol, however, his status will remain murky for Sunday's game against the Commanders. Elijah Higgins would stand to benefit most among Cardinals tight ends if McBride is forced to miss any time.

Enters concussion protocol

Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said Monday that McBride is in the concussion protocol in the aftermath of Sunday's 20-13 loss to the Lions, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: McBride endured a helmet-to-helmet hit from Detroit defensive back Brian Branch in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game and had a concussion check afterward. Now that McBride is confirmed to be in the protocol for head injuries, he'll need to complete its five phases, including gaining clearance from an independent neurologist, in order to play again. As a result, his status is up in the air for this coming Sunday's matchup with the Commanders. Tip Reiman, Elijah Higgins and Travis Vokolek are…read more

Possible concussion

McBride is being evaluated for a possible concussion Sunday against the Lions.

Analysis: McBride went into the blue medical tent after a helmet-to-helmet collision with Lions safety Brian Branch. Prior to the fourth-quarter injury, McBride caught three of six targets for 25 yards. If tests confirm a concussion, McBride would have to clear the NFL's five-step concussion protocol to have a chance to play Week 4 against the Commanders.

Brings in all six targets Sunday

McBride corralled all six of his targets for 67 yards in Sunday's 41-10 win over the Rams. He also scored a touchdown on a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter.

Analysis: The Cardinals dominated this contest from start to finish. The fact that McBride finished as the squad's second-leading receiver in a run-heavy game script bodes well for the starter's fantasy prospects this season. The 2022 second-round pick has quietly provided 11 receptions for 97 yards through two games in his first season as the No. 1 option on the depth chart. McBride provides fantasy managers with a safe option at a generally shallow position with some added upside as both his game and…read more

Just 30 yards in loss

McBride caught five of nine targets for 30 yards in Sunday's 34-28 loss to the Bills.

Analysis: McBride led the Cardinals in targets but delivered a middling performance in the competitive Week 1 loss. Arizona's entire passing game struggled, with no player posting more than 44 receiving yards. The 24-year-old tight end had more than 30 yards in each of his last eight games last season, so McBride's unlikely to remain this quiet in Week 2 against the Rams.

No. 1 TE on depth chart

McBride remains listed as the Cardinals' No. 1 tight end on the team's second unofficial depth chart of training camp, Jeremy Cluff of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Oftentimes, NFL depth charts in August are merely guesses by team media relations staffs as to where players stand, but in the case of McBride there's little question regarding his status in the Cardinals offense. Not only is he Arizona's top tight end, he'll be among the top targets for QB Kyler Murray in 2024 alongside first-round rookie WR Marvin Harrison, second-year WR Michael Wilson and RB James Conner. In the eight games in which Murray was under center last season, McBride, a 2022…read more

Catches third TD Sunday

McBride had three receptions on six targets for 34 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 21-20 loss to Seattle.

Analysis: McBride finished his breakout fantasy campaign on a high note by catching the only touchdown Kyler Murray threw against the Seahawks on Sunday. The second-year tight end saw huge jumps in usage after Week 1 starter Zach Ertz (quadriceps) landed on season-ending IR in Week 7. McBride took advantage of the opportunity and rattled off 69 receptions, 655 yards and all three of his touchdowns over the ensuing 10 games as the No. 1 option. That is a healthy enough snapshot to get an idea of the…read more

Grabs six catches Sunday

McBride hauled in six of seven targets for 48 yards in Sunday's 35-31 win over the Eagles.

Analysis: McBride tacked on six more receptions to his season total (78) in the follow-up performance to his six-catch game against the Bears in Week 16. Even with the healthy usage, the sophomore tight end still finished with less than 50 receiving yards for the second contest in a row. Even though his production has dipped in recent weeks, McBride remains a top option at a shallow fantasy position as Arizona prepares to face Seattle to close out the regular season in Week 18.

Grabs six catches Sunday

McBride hauled in six of seven targets for 48 yards in Sunday's 35-31 win over the Eagles.

Analysis: McBride tacked on six more receptions to his season total (78) in the follow-up performance to his six-catch game against the Bears in Week 16. Even with the healthy usage, the sophomore tight end still finished with less than 50 receiving yards for the second contest in a row. Even though his production has dipped in recent weeks, McBride remains a top option at a shallow fantasy position as Arizona prepares to face Seattle to close out the regular season in Week 18.

Makes six catches in Week 16

McBride gathered in six of eight targets for 31 yards during Sunday's 27-16 defeat at Chicago.

Analysis: McBride has been on a tear since quarterback Kyler Murray's season debut back in Week 10, racking up a 38-425-1 line on 45 targets over the previous five contests. That said, McBride failed to reach 40 receiving yards in a game for just the third time in the last nine outings. He'll aim to bounce back Sunday, Dec. 31 against an Eagles defense that has allowed the eighth-highest catch rate (75.3 percent) to opposing tight ends this season.

Cracks century mark Sunday

McBride hauled in 10 of 11 targets for 102 yards in Sunday's 45-29 loss to San Francisco.

Analysis: McBride finished as the Cardinals' leading receiver while also notching his second 100-yard game of the season. The blossoming tight end's only missed target came on one of Kyler Murray's two interceptions in the loss to the 49ers. McBride exited Sunday's tilt in the first half with a shoulder injury and was deemed questionable to return, according to Cardinals' beat reporter Darren Urban. Fortunately for his fantasy managers, McBride was able to overcome the injury to record his second-highest…read more

Strong showing in tough conditions

McBride recorded eight receptions on nine targets for 89 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-10 win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Arizona's offense played through rain-soaked conditions and understandably relied primarily on their run game as a result. That didn't stop McBride from turning in an excellent performance, which was highlighted by three catches of at least 15 yards as well as a five-yard touchdown reception just before halftime. In four games since Kyler Murray has returned, McBride has at least 60 receiving yards on three occasions.

Available for Sunday's game

McBride (groin) is listed as active Sunday in Pittsburgh.

Analysis: After sitting out the first practice of Week 13 prep due to a groin injury, McBride capped it with back-to-back limited sessions and entered the weekend as questionable for Sunday's game. Eventually, both Adam Schefter of ESPN and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported that McBride was slated to play, and his status now has been cleared up. McBride has been Kyler Murray's favorite pass catcher since the quarterback returned from his torn ACL, racking up a 20-234-0 line on 25 targets over the past…read more

Still expected to play Sunday

McBride (groin) is expected to suit up for Sunday's game against the Steelers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: McBride is officially listed as questionable for Week 13, but reports remain positive about his chances of suiting up Sunday. The starting tight end's status will be made official when Arizona releases its inactive list roughly 90 minutes ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff. Meanwhile, wideout Marquise Brown (heel) is also expected to take on Pittsburgh, and he'll likely represent McBride's primary competition for targets in the Arizona passing game.

Expected to play Sunday

McBride (groin) is likely to play in Sunday's game against the Steelers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: McBride popped up with a groin injury that sidelined him during practice Wednesday. However, he was able to participate in a limited fashion Thursday and Friday, and it looks he's on track to suit up for his 13th game this season Sunday. McBride's ultimate availability will come down to Arizona's actives/inactives list released 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff in Pittsburgh.

Status up in air for Sunday

McBride (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Pittsburgh, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: In the same week in which the Cardinals waived veteran tight end Zach Ertz (quadriceps), McBride himself managed just two limited practices (Thursday and Friday) and now has an injury designation ahead of Week 13 action. McBride's status will be clarified about 90 minutes before Sunday's 1.00 p.m. ET kickoff, and if he's deemed active, he'll look to continue his rapport with quarterback Kyler Murray, which has amounted to 20 catches (on 25 targets) for 234 yards and no touchdowns over the last…read more

Expected to practice again

McBride (groin) will practice Friday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: McBride was a limited participant Thursday after being held out from Wednesday's session. Coach Jonathan Gannon said an upcoming Week 14 bye won't impact any decisions on the tight end's availability for a game in Pittsburgh this Sunday. Meanwhile, the team waived 33-year-old TE Zach Ertz on Thursday, answering any questions about whether the veteran's eventual return from a quad injury might impact McBride's rather large role in the offense.

Logs limited practice Thursday

McBride (groin) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: McBride wasn't spotted at the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, per Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site. However, McBride eventually mixed into drills at some point, making some headway toward being available Sunday at Pittsburgh. In the end, his listing on Friday's injury report will give a sense of his odds to suit up this weekend.

No practice Thursday

McBride (groin) didn't practice Thursday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: McBride has been on a tear of late with quarterback Kyler Murray under center, hauling in 20 of 25 targets for 234 yards over the last three games. As the Cardinals make their way through Week 13 prep, McBride has yet to mix into drills and now has just one more chance to do so before the team potentially makes a ruling on his availability for Sunday's contest at Pittsburgh.

Dealing with groin issue

McBride was a non-participant at Wednesday's practice due to a groin injury, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: McBride was emerging as one of Arizona's top pass catchers before Kyler Murray returned from his torn ACL in Week 10, and since then, the second-year tight end has combined for 20 catches (on 25 targets) for 234 yards over the last three games. With the groin issue keeping him off the field to begin Week 13 prep, however, McBride's status will be one to monitor closely as Sunday approaches to get a sense of his potential to suit up in Pittsburgh.

Seven catches in Week 12 loss

McBride brought in seven of nine targets for 60 yards in the Cardinals' 37-14 loss to the Rams on Sunday.

Analysis: The talented tight end finished as the team leader in receptions while checking in as the runner-up in receiving yards and tied for second in targets as well. McBride's production has proven to have some staying power in the wake of Zach Ertz's quadriceps injury, with the former posting at least five receptions in four of his last five games. McBride will aim to keep up his recent stretch of play in a Week 13 interconference road battle against the Steelers.

Stays busy in Week 11 loss

McBride brought in five of seven targets for 43 yards in the Cardinals' 21-16 loss to the Texans on Sunday.

Analysis: McBride didn't put up the same caliber of numbers as in a pair of his recent performances, but he still finished second on Arizona in receptions and targets while checking in third in receiving yards. The second-year tight end has at least five receptions in three of his past four games and should remain an integral part of the air attack in a Week 12 home matchup against the Rams.

Another fruitful outing in Week 10

McBride reeled in eight of nine targets for 131 yards during Sunday's 25-23 victory against the Falcons.

Analysis: In quarterback Kyler Murray's return to the lineup from last December's ACL tear, McBride paced the Cardinals in every receiving category, with Rondale Moore's 5-43-0 line on eight targets a distant second to the second-year tight end. McBride came close to replicating his 10-95-1 line on 14 targets from Week 8, when he was working with now-Vikings QB Joshua Dobbs. Those outings aside, though, McBride has surpassed 40 receiving yards only one time in his other eight games. Perhaps the…read more

Limited to three grabs in shutout

McBride brought in three of five targets for 22 yards in the Cardinals' 27-0 loss to the Browns on Sunday.

Analysis: McBride's catch and yardage totals, modest as they were, qualified as the second highest for the Cardinals on an afternoon when rookie Clayton Tune threw for only 58 yards in his starting debut. Despite the downturn following a breakout 10-catch, 95-yard, one-touchdown performance versus the Ravens in Week 8, McBride could reemerge as a significant component in the air attack if Kyler Murray (knee) is activated ahead of a Week 10 home matchup against the Falcons.

Excels in starting role

McBride hauled in 10 of his 14 targets for 95 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-24 loss to Baltimore.

Analysis: McBride absorbed veteran Zach Ertz's (quadriceps) targets after the latter was placed on injured reserve following last week's loss to Seattle. The end result was a career game for McBride, who upped his season receiving line to 25-265-1 through eight weeks. The 2022 second-round pick generated the exact same amount of receiving yards and touchdowns as a rookie, but he needed twice as many games to reach those totals in 2022. Ertz will miss Arizona's next three games at a minimum, opening the…read more

Larger workload on tap

McBride is in line for an expanded workload with the Cardinals poised to place fellow tight end Zach Ertz (quadriceps) on injured reserve, Jose M. Romero of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: After taking a back seat to Ertz from Weeks 1-5, McBride usurped him in terms of offensive snaps Week 6 before matching him at 35 apiece this past Sunday in Seattle. An increase in production for the second-year tight end has followed, as he's hauled in seven of 11 targets for 91 yards over the last two games after putting up an 8-79-0 line on 10 targets through the first five contests. With Ertz on the shelf for at least the next four outings, McBride becomes the Cardinals' No. 1 TE, with only…read more

Outproducing veteran starter

McBride had three receptions on six targets for 29 yards in Sunday's 20-10 loss to Seattle.

Analysis: McBride finished as one of Arizona's top two leading receivers for the second week in a row. The 23-year-old also finished ahead of veteran starter Zach Ertz (3-19-0) in terms of production in consecutive weeks, as it appears the Cardinals are shifting to a youth movement of sorts midseason. Ertz should remain in the mix for the time being, limiting McBride's fantasy value in the short term. That said, the 2022 second-round pick could become a hot add if his role grows further against the…read more

Season-best performance in Week 6

McBride gathered in four of five targets for 62 yards during Sunday's 26-9 loss to the Rams.

Analysis: McBride tied for the team lead in receiving yards with rookie wideout Michael Wilson and also matched veteran tight end Zach Ertz in terms of targets. McBride also saw offensive snaps than Ertz (44-35) in a game for the first time this season, which contributed to the latter's sparse 2-22-0 receiving line. McBride will look to build on this performance in Week 7 versus a Seahawks defense that has surrendered the fourth-highest YPC (8.8) to tight ends in 2023.

Makes two catches Sunday

McBride recorded two catches on three targets for 17 yards during Sunday's 34-20 loss to the Bengals.

Analysis: With Zach Ertz back from last year's torn ACL, McBride has split the backup workload with Geoff Swaim through the first five games of the season. Overall, McBride has logged 114 offensive snaps to Swaim's 110 (out of a possible 299), and McBride has managed to haul in eight of 10 targets for 79 yards versus Swaim's two receptions on three targets for 22 yards. Considering the lack of output for both players, McBride likely will need some sort of absence from Ertz to make a fantasy impact.

Minimal involvement in loss

McBride secured his only target for five yards in Sunday's 35-16 loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: McBride continued to play behind the Cardinals' No. 1 tight end Zach Ertz on Sunday, playing just 19 of the Cardinals 71 offensive snaps. The second-year tight end saw just one target for the second straight game, as his involvement in Arizona's offensive is decreasing each week. McBride should remain far off the fantasy radar when the Cardinals host the Bengals in Week 5.

Sees only one target in Week 3

McBride reeled in his only target for two yards during Sunday's 28-16 victory against the Cowboys.

Analysis: McBride so far has played second fiddle to Cardinals No. 1 tight end Zach Ertz through three games, garnering six targets and 77 offensive snaps to the latter's 20 and 118, respectively. In fact, fellow TE Geoff Swaim has seen 71 plays on offense, including 32 to McBride's 30 in Week 3, though the former hasn't been targeted. As such, McBride doesn't hold much sway in fantasy at the moment and may not unless an injury strikes Arizona's receiving corps at some point.

Notches two catches in Week 1

McBride caught both of his targets for 23 yards during Sunday's 20-16 loss in Washington.

Analysis: With Zach Ertz making his return from last November's season-ending ACL tear, the younger tight end played second fiddle to the veteran in offensive snaps, 48-23. McBride took advantage of his sparse opportunities though, while Ertz was merely a check-down option (6-21-0 on 10 targets). As long as Ertz has the upper hand in playing time, McBride will be hard-pressed to be a regular contributor in a Cardinals passing game that already figures to offer few fireworks. McBride's next chance to make…read more

One catch in preseason loss

McBride brought in one of two targets for four yards in the Cardinals' 38-10 preseason loss to the Chiefs on Saturday night.

Analysis: The second-year tight end drew the start with Zach Ertz (knee) still sidelined. Despite the minimal production Saturday, McBride is expected to serve as a key complementary component of the air attack after posting a 29-265-1 line across 16 games as a rookie and generating the bulk of that production after Ertz was lost for the season.

Logs DNP on Friday

McBride didn't play during Friday's 18-17 preseason victory versus the Broncos, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: McBride's practice reps early in training camp were impacted by what coach Jonathan Gannon called "nicks and bruises," but the second-year tight end was able to log some on-field work as recently as Tuesday. Despite returning to practice, he seemingly was held out as a precaution Friday as he puts the injuries further in the rearview mirror. Zach Ertz, the Cardinals' top TE when healthy, continues his recovery from November knee surgery, so the decision to keep McBride on ice is a prudent one.…read more

Back on field Tuesday

McBride (undisclosed) returned to practice Tuesday, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: After missing the last week of on-field work, McBride was spotted running routes without issue during individual drills Tuesday. Now that he's back in the fold, he'll continue to serve as the Cardinals' No. 1 tight end until Zach Ertz completes his recovery from knee surgery and is activated from the active/PUP list.

No practice Wednesday

McBride (undisclosed) didn't practice Wednesday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Head coach Jonathan Gannon told Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com on Tuesday that McBride was tending to "nicks and bruises," which are keeping him off the practice field entirely at the moment. Because Zach Ertz (knee) currently resides on the active/PUP list, Noah Togiai and Geoff Swaim are the current healthy tight ends for the Cardinals that have logged some NFL action in their careers.

Practice reps impacted by injury

Coach Jonathan Gannon said Tuesday that McBride is dealing with undisclosed "nicks and bruises," Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: Like wide receiver Marquise Brown (undisclosed), McBride has a health concern that is impacting his practice reps. With Zach Ertz currently on the active/PUP list as he continues his recovery from late November knee surgery, McBride is the Cardinals' No. 1 tight end, at least if he's healthy. Behind McBride, Noah Togiai and Geoff Swaim are the only TEs on the roster with NFL snaps on their resumes.

Corrals all targets in finale

McBride had three receptions on as many targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 38-13 loss to San Francisco.

Analysis: McBride was one of the few bright spots for the Cardinals in a forgettable season finale. The rookie tight end finishes with 29 receptions for 265 yards and a touchdown, with most of that production coming down the stretch in place of injured starter Zach Ertz (knee). The latter had major surgery to his knee in November, so McBride could continue starting for Arizona to begin the 2023 campaign.

First career touchdown

McBride recorded seven receptions on 10 targets for 78 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-19 loss to the Falcons.

Analysis: McBride showed immediate rapport with David Blough and tied for the team lead in targets. He turned that into career-high marks in receptions and yards, highlighted by long gains of 26, 16 and 14 yards. In addition to the big plays, McBride hauled in his first career touchdown on a four-yard catch early in the second quarter. McBride had a slow start to his rookie season, but he now has at least three receptions in five of his last six games.

Nabs three receptions Sunday

McBride finished with three receptions for 17 yards on four targets in Sunday's 19-16 overtime loss to the Buccaneers.

Analysis: The rookie tight end's target count and playing time (he logged 85 percent of the offensive snaps) didn't change much with Trace McSorley directing the offense, but McBride's efficiency trended back down along with most of Arizona's other pass catchers except for Greg Dortch (10 catches for 98 yards) while the third-string quarterback was at the helm. Colt McCoy has since cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and should take back the reins of the offense from McSorley while Kyler Murray (knee)…read more

Breaks out against Denver

McBride recorded four receptions on five targets for 55 yards in Sunday's 24-15 loss to the Broncos.

Analysis: McBride has operated as Arizona's top tight end since Zach Ertz (knee) went down in Week 10, though entering Sunday's game he had yet to top 28 receiving yards in a game. However, McBride showed particularly strong rapport with Trace McSorley and managed lengthy receptions of 29 and 14 yards to account for the majority of his production. With both DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown still dominating targets, McBride could see inconsistent usage to close his rookie campaign, though Sunday's…read more

Totals three catches Monday

McBride recorded three catches (on six targets) for 28 yards during Monday's 27-13 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: After notching three receptions total (all in Week 4) in the first eight appearances of his career, the 2022 second-round pick now has at least one catch in four consecutive games. His boost in usage coincided with Zach Ertz's season-ending injury to his left knee, and McBride has responded with a cumulative 9-50-0 line on 14 targets during the aforementioned span. McBride may be forced to work with backup quarterback Colt McCoy for the rest of the campaign after Kyler Murray left Monday's…read more

Manages one catch in Week 12

McBride hauled in one of three targets for one yard during Sunday's 25-24 loss to the Chargers.

Analysis: McBride has paced Cardinals tight ends in snap share (79 percent Sunday) since Zach Ertz suffered a season-ending knee injury early in Week 10, with Maxx Williams (26 percent) and Stephen Anderson (18 percent) well behind the rookie second-round pick. Still, McBride hasn't done much with the increased workload, recording a cumulative 6-22-0 line on eight targets over the last three games. His play count should remain high, but wide receivers DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown are the top…read more

Records career-best four receptions

McBride tallied four catches on four targets for 14 yards during Monday's 38-10 loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: In the Cardinals' first game without Zach Ertz due to a likely season-ending knee injury, McBride saw the biggest workload among the team's tight ends, earning a 76 percent snap share to Maxx Williams' 18 percent and Stephen Anderson's 10 percent. McBride also doubled up that duo in yards and targets, however unimpressive his totals were. The rookie second-round pick's production could become more consistent once Kyler Murray (hamstring) -- and not Colt McCoy or Trace McSorley -- is back…read more

Set for larger role sans Ertz

McBride is poised for a bigger role in the Cardinals offense with Zach Ertz (knee) out indefinitely, Darren Urban of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Following Ertz's early departure Sunday at the Rams, McBride earned his largest snap share of his rookie campaign, earning 91 percent of the offensive plays. McBride fumbled and recovered his only catch of the day -- which marked his first reception since Week 4 -- but he's hauled in all four of his targets for 31 yards through nine appearances. The 2022 second-round pick will join forces with veteran Stephen Anderson to handle tight end snaps in place of Ertz, potentially for the rest of the…read more

Regular usage continues in Week 9

McBride logged 13 of 63 offensive snaps during Sunday's 31-21 defeat to the Seahawks.

Analysis: Since seeing the first three targets of his career Week 4, the rookie second-round pick has received consistent offensive snaps in five games in the interim. That said, McBride hasn't been targeted during that stretch, despite earning at least a 21 percent share of the plays. Meanwhile, veteran Zach Ertz continues to dominate reps at tight end for the Cardinals with 68 targets through nine contests, a reality that makes McBride a fantasy nonentity in the middle of his first pro campaign.

Remains active, but output lacking

McBride logged 34 of 66 offensive snaps and 24 more plays on special teams during Thursday's 42-34 win versus the Saints.

Analysis: Selected in the second round of this year's draft, McBride made his pro debut Week 2 and has been a regular at tight end over the last four games, but his only tallies on offense so far occurred during a three-catch performance Week 4. He has logged time on special teams in all six appearances this season, but his first (and only) tackle in kick or punt coverage came Thursday. Considering Zach Ertz dominates snaps and targets at his position, McBride may continue his quiet ways for the…read more

Records first catches of career

McBride reeled in all three targets for 24 yards during Sunday's 26-16 victory at Carolina.

Analysis: McBride was on the receiving end of quarterback Kyler Murray's first pass of the game, and by the time the clock hit 0:00, the rookie second-round pick had blown away his usage from his first two career appearances, logging 32 of 76 snaps on offense after handling five combined between Weeks 2 and 3. If his increase in playing time continues, McBride now may be the Cardinals' clear-cut No. 2 tight end behind Zach Ertz moving forward. However, considering Ertz's snap share has hovered between 82…read more

Role to expand, but when?

McBride's role in the Cardinals offense is expected to grow as the season goes on, Bob McManaman of the Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Coach Kliff Kingsbury said as much after Friday's practice, relaying McBride is "doing better and better." The rookie second-round pick was a healthy scratch Week 1, then logged just one offensive snap and 10 plays on special teams this past Sunday in Las Vegas. He's stuck behind top tight end Zach Ertz and a pair of veterans in Maxx Williams and Stephen Anderson, so managers may have to play the waiting game for McBride to get regular work in the offense. McBride's next chance to do so arrives…read more

Has quiet pro debut

McBride notched one offensive snap and 10 plays on special teams during Sunday's 29-23 overtime victory at Las Vegas.

Analysis: Despite being a second-round pick, the rookie was a healthy scratch in the season opener while all of Zach Ertz, Maxx Williams and Stephen Anderson were active and saw offensive snaps. The aforementioned trio of tight ends again mixed into the offense Sunday, but McBride was active this time for a single play. He may have a steep path to regular work as long as Ertz, Williams and Anderson are available, but McBride at least has that first snap on offense behind him.

NFL debut delayed

McBride (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game versus the Chiefs, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Despite Zach Ertz coming back from a calf injury that sidelined him for more than a month and Maxx Williams returning from a torn ACL suffered last October, McBride won't see NFL action in his first opportunity to do so. It may come as a surprise considering the Cardinals spent a second-round pick on the tight end back in April, but McBride will have to wait until potentially next Sunday at Las Vegas to see the field in an official game.

No targets in preseason finale

McBride wasn't targeted on 35 offensive snaps during Saturday's preseason loss at Tennessee.

Analysis: Since missing the Cardinals' first exhibition due to a sore back, McBride has been able to suit up for the team's final two preseason contests, failing to haul in either of his targets while racking up 66 snaps on offense and 14 more on special teams. Of course, the rookie second-round pick has yet to work in a game with starting quarterback Kyler Murray, so his prospects should improve once Week 1 arrives. Top tight end Zach Ertz (calf) didn't play in the preseason, and Maxx Williams is still…read more

Sees first preseason action

McBride (back) was unable to catch either of his two targets in Sunday's 24-17 preseason loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: McBride was dealing with a minor back injury heading into this contest, so his availability in the second week of the preseason bodes well for the rookie's status as Week 1 approaches. That's important news from a fantasy perspective, given that projected starter Zach Ertz (calf) still is without a concrete timetable to return. McBride -- who was the first tight end taken off the board in 2022 -- didn't get many opportunities to flash his skills against Baltimore, but he should get a better…read more

Will play in second preseason game

Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Wednesday that McBride (back) will play in Sunday's preseason game against the Ravens, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: McBride sat out the preseason opener due to lingering back soreness, but he appears ready for his first NFL game action. The rookie second-round pick was a standout receiver at Colorado State but will presumably be the No. 3 tight end on the Cardinals depth chart if Zach Ertz (calf) and Maxx Williams (knee) are healthy Week 1.

Likely sitting for preseason opener

McBride (back) may not be able to play during Friday's preseason game against the Bengals, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The 6-foot-3, 249-pound tight end has been dealing with some back soreness through the August portion of training camp, but the team hasn't expressed too much concern about the issue. McBride was the first tight end selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, but with Zach Ertz the presumed starter, the 22-year-old could find himself third on Arizona's depth chart if Maxx Williams (knee) is cleared to play by Week 1. McBride will likely partake in preseason action at some point, but it looks like he'll…read more

Playing it safe with back issue

Arizona will continue to have McBride sit out of practice for a couple more days while he deals with back soreness ahead of the team's first preseason game Friday night, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals' reluctance to rush McBride back to practice is understandable after the team selected him in the second round of this year's draft. Nevertheless, coach Kliff Kingsbury has been optimistic that the tight end will be available for the team's first preseason matchup against Cincinnati. McBride likely will slot in as Arizona's No. 3 tight end behind Zach Ertz and Maxx Williams, and he should see plenty of run in the exhibition opener if he's available, according to Weinfuss.