On Thursday, the Arizona Cardinals made history by signing tight end Trey McBride to the most lucrative contract for a tight end in NFL history. The four-year extension is worth $76 million, with $43 million guaranteed, setting an annual average of $19 million.
This deal surpasses the previous record held by Kansas City Chiefs’ Travis Kelce, who had an average annual salary of $17.125 million. McBride’s contract solidifies him as the top-paid tight end in the league.
McBride’s Record-Breaking 2024 Season Solidifies His Status as Elite Tight End
McBride, 25, is coming off a stellar 2024 season where he earned his first Pro Bowl appearance. As one of the most productive tight ends in recent years, McBride has accumulated the fourth-most receptions (221) and yards (2,236) since entering the league in 2022.
He has surpassed many notable players in the position, including the top earners like Kelce, Evan Engram, and T.J. Hockenson. McBride’s rise as one of the league’s elite tight ends made him a prime candidate for a significant contract extension.
Trey McBride (NFL)McBride made a remarkable impact during his first three seasons in the NFL. His 221 receptions set a new record for the most by a tight end in their first three seasons, surpassing George Kittle’s previous record of 216.
In addition to his receptions, McBride finished the 2024 season ranked first among tight ends in several key metrics, including targets per route run, team target share, and receiving first downs. His 1,146 receiving yards and 111 catches placed him among the league’s elite.
McBride’s Historic 2024 Performance Fuels Cardinals’ Offense, with Murray’s Full Support
In 2024, McBride’s performance was monumental for the Cardinals. His 111 receptions ranked as the second most in franchise history for any pass catcher, only behind DeAndre Hopkins’ 115 in 2020. His all-around contributions were vital for the team’s offensive success, as he excelled in both receiving yards and targets.
McBride also demonstrated his ability to be a key asset in the Cardinals’ offensive scheme, finishing second in receiving yards and third in yards after the catch.
The contract extension was well-received by McBride’s teammates, with quarterback Kyler Murray expressing his excitement and approval of the deal. Murray took to social media to proclaim that McBride was “worth every penny,” to which McBride responded, signaling their mutual belief in a successful partnership.
With McBride under contract through the 2029 season, the Cardinals are committed to building around his talents, and expectations are high for what the future holds for both McBride and the team.
