McBride's Touchdown Drought Due to End

Trey McBride has been one of the most heavily targeted players in Arizona’s offense, consistently drawing throws from quarterback Kyler Murray. However, touchdowns have remained rare in his stat line. That imbalance is expected to shift in 2025.

McBride Commands Huge Target Share

Last season, McBride earned 28 percent of the Cardinals’ targets, a figure that highlights just how much trust Murray places in his tight end. Few players across the league were targeted as frequently.

His steady target volume has been remarkable. For two consecutive seasons, McBride produced nearly identical efficiency numbers. He catches passes reliably, moves the chains consistently, and provides a dependable safety valve whenever Murray needs it.

The Touchdown Problem

The surprising statistic is how rarely McBride has reached the end zone. Over the past two seasons, he scored only five touchdowns on 253 total targets. That translates to one score for every 50 targets, while most top receivers manage a touchdown roughly every 20 targets or fewer.

Last year, McBride accounted for nearly 30 percent of Arizona’s targets but produced only 10 percent of their receiving touchdowns. For a player with his ability, those numbers clearly do not align.

Why This Year Will Be Different

The Cardinals enter 2025 with continuity on offense, Murray returns at quarterback, and the same system is in place. Coaches understand how to design plays that take advantage of McBride’s skill set.

Meanwhile, the defense underwent major improvements. The team signed edge rusher Josh Sweat and selected defensive tackle Walter Nolen in the first round of the draft. A sturdier defense should shorten opponent drives and give Arizona’s offense more possessions.

More possessions naturally create more opportunities in the red zone, and more red zone trips should increase McBride’s chances of finally converting his heavy workload into touchdowns.

McBride Stays the Top Target

Marvin Harrison Jr. is expected to expand his role in his second season, but McBride remains Murray’s most trusted receiving option. His precise routes and ability to find gaps in coverage make him invaluable.

Consistency is what sets McBride apart. Week after week, he delivers catches and production, which keeps him firmly established as a centerpiece of Arizona’s passing game.

Why It Matters

McBride has proven he can do almost everything except score touchdowns. His commanding share of targets demonstrates how essential he is to the offense. With an improved defense creating more scoring chances and a stable offensive system in place, 2025 presents the best opportunity yet for McBride to end his scoring drought. When Arizona gets into the red zone, he will be in prime position to finally capitalize.

— Adapted from the Deep Dive Fantasy Football Podcast