The Arizona Cardinals did not make the playoffs in 2024. Though quarterback Kyler Murray played all 17 games after returning from an ACL injury in 2023, he and standout tight end Trey McBride could only guide the team to an 8–9 finish.
McBride just inked a massive extension, and Murray let fans and the media know his thoughts on the deal.
Kyler Murray, Trey McBride Fall Short of Playoffs
Expectations for Murray may have been tempered coming into 2024 after an injury-shortened 2023 season, in which he played just eight games. ACL recoveries can be unpredictable, but Murray showed no signs of lingering issues.
In fact, he posted one of the best statistical seasons of his career — throwing for 3,851 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions while completing 68.8% of his passes.
His top target in 2024 was clearly McBride. The third-year tight end led the team with 147 targets and posted a team-high 1,146 receiving yards. He also had more receptions than any other Arizona pass catcher by a wide margin.
Still, McBride struggled to find the end zone. He didn’t catch his first touchdown until Week 15 and finished the season with just two scores — both coming in the final two games.
Despite the lack of touchdowns, Arizona saw enough to commit to him long-term. The Cardinals signed McBride to a four-year, $76 million extension on April 3, including $43 million guaranteed. The deal makes him the highest-paid tight end in NFL history.
Murray Reacts to McBride’s Record-Breaking Deal
The extension quickly made waves around the NFL, and Murray was one of the first to react. He took to social media to congratulate McBride and emphasize the work still ahead.
“Maaaaan! So happy for my dawg, worth every penny! More work to be done but a great day,” Murray posted Thursday evening.
Maaaaan! So happy for my dawg, worth every penny! More work to be done but a great day.🙏🏽 @mcbtrey pic.twitter.com/Iwd0tYdhdx
— Kyler Murray (@K1) April 3, 2025
As Arizona enters its third season under head coach Jonathan Gannon, the hope is that 2025 will bring playoff football back to the desert. If that’s going to happen, Murray and McBride will need to lead the way.
So far, the Cardinals have focused most of their offseason moves on the defensive side. Key additions include pass rusher Josh Sweat and veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell.
They also added some offensive depth. Wide receiver Simi Fehoko and offensive lineman Royce Freeman joined the roster, while veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett was brought in to back up Murray.
Still, the offensive load will likely fall on Murray, McBride, and second-year wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. The Cardinals selected Harrison fourth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, and he’s expected to play a major role in his sophomore campaign.
With a mix of proven veterans and young stars, Arizona looks ready to take the next step. If all goes according to plan, 2025 could mark a return to the playoffs for the Cardinals.