What's Happening?
Trey McBride, a former Colorado State University star, has set a new NFL record for the most receptions in a single season by a tight end. On December 28, 2025, during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals,
McBride achieved his 117th catch of the season, surpassing the previous record held by Zach Ertz since 2018. McBride finished the game with 10 catches for 76 yards and a touchdown, bringing his season totals to 119 catches, 1,174 yards, and 11 touchdowns. This achievement adds to McBride's accolades, as he was named a Pro Bowler for the second consecutive year. His performance this season has been a continuation of his success from college, where he was a unanimous All-American and won the Mackey Award as the nation's top tight end in 2021.
Why It's Important?
McBride's record-setting performance highlights the evolving role of tight ends in the NFL, showcasing their increasing importance in offensive strategies. His achievement not only cements his status as one of the league's top players but also reflects the growing trend of tight ends being utilized as primary receiving targets. This shift could influence how teams draft and develop players in this position, potentially leading to changes in offensive playbooks across the league. For McBride, this record enhances his marketability and could lead to lucrative contract negotiations in the future, impacting team salary cap strategies.
What's Next?
With one game remaining in the season, McBride has the opportunity to further extend his record, potentially setting a benchmark that could stand for years. His performance will likely be closely watched by teams and analysts, as it may influence future game plans and player evaluations. Additionally, McBride's success could inspire other tight ends to aim for similar achievements, potentially leading to a new era of tight end dominance in the NFL.
