GLENDALE – Despite a record-breaking 2025 season, some outlets aren’t ready to give Arizona Cardinals tight end the best in the world tag. Bleacher Report is releasing their ranking of every position group in the NFL heading into 2026, with tight ends being the latest list. The outlet’s scouting department gave their individual grade that was combined together for the final grades. The format put McBride second overall with a grade of 86, only behind San Francisco 49ers’ George Kittle at 92.
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Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (85) against the Atlanta Falcons at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Dan Harms on what makes McBride successful:
“More of an explosive straight-line mover, McBride uses subtle changes in footwork and attacking angles to create separation and insane ball skills to catch the football anywhere around him. While he isn’t the most functional blocker, he does more at the second level and chips defensive ends before going out on routes.”
Jan 4, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (85) runs after the catch against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Kittle was graded higher in three of the five categories: Blocking, Routing Running and Football IQ. The biggest difference is McBride’s being graded a 9/15 in blocking, which is the 26-year-old’s biggest weakness. Given the team’s lack of offensive playmaking and non existent running game in 2025, McBride was often lined up outside.
Arizona’s offensive line struggles with pass protection led to offensive coordinator Drew Petzing drawing up quick reads for McBride, like tight end screens and flat routes. Harms highlighted that his ability to garner yards after the catch is impressive, especially the yards after contact.
Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (85) is introduced before their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at State Farm Stadium on Nov. 23, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Despite his impressive agility at his size, the main reason for the all-time year was because of the Cardinals continuously feeding him. McBride was first for tight ends in target share (25.4%), red zone targets (32) and first-read share (33.8%). One could make the case if any player in his position got those looks they too would put up numbers.
Not to take away from the young tight end, as it could be years before that type of season is topped. However, an offensive-minded coach Mike LaFleur coming in and Jacoby Brissett returning under center means he could be the one to top it himself.
Dec 28, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (85) celebrates with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) after a touchdown during the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
That could change, as Tuesday’s announcement from LaFleur named rookie QB Carson Beck the starter for Thursday’s preseason game vs. the Carolina Panthers. Could McBride remain at the top with a rookie under center? With a month before the season, a lot is still in the air for McBride to earn the crown of best in the world.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
