Trey McBride has set the new standard for tight end contracts in the NFL, signing a four-year extension with the Arizona Cardinals worth $76 million. This deal not only makes him the highest-paid tight end in history, with an average of $19 million per year, but it also features the highest total guarantees ($43 million) and the largest fully guaranteed amount at signing ($32.5 million). McBride's extension outpaces previous records held by stars like Travis Kelce and T.J. Hockenson, significantly impacting the market for tight ends.

With McBride's remarkable performance and this lucrative deal, the Cardinals are investing heavily in their offense. The list of highest-paid tight ends has now shifted, with notable players like Travis Kelce and T.J. Hockenson now trailing behind McBride. As teams evaluate their rosters and budgets, this contract will likely influence negotiations across the league, especially for other tight ends seeking extensions or free agency opportunities.

The Arizona Cardinals have secured their star tight end, Trey McBride, with a record-setting four-year, $76 million extension. This contract, which includes $43 million guaranteed, positions McBride as the highest-paid tight end in NFL history. Previously, Travis Kelce and T.J. Hockenson held the average per year and guaranteed money records, respectively. McBride's impressive 2024 season saw him achieve 111 receptions, ranking as the fourth most by a tight end in NFL history, solidifying his role as a key target for quarterback Kyler Murray.

With this new deal, McBride is under contract through the 2029 season, ensuring that one of the league's top tight ends remains in Arizona for the long haul. His performance not only enhances his value but also significantly boosts Murray's offensive options, as McBride's ability to consistently gain yards after the catch makes him a crucial asset in the passing game.

Fantasy football often sees players struggle through challenging seasons, only to emerge as top performers in subsequent years. Many athletes displayed potential last season but failed to meet lofty expectations, setting the stage for a rebound in 2025. This overview highlights one candidate from each position who is primed for a comeback: Jordan Love (QB, Green Bay Packers), Breece Hall (RB, New York Jets), Tyreek Hill (WR, Miami Dolphins), and T.J. Hockenson (TE, Minnesota Vikings).

Jordan Love, despite a rollercoaster year impacted by injury, has shown resilience and maintains a promising trajectory. Meanwhile, Breece Hall's situation has improved with a coaching change and the departure of Aaron Rodgers, expecting a significant uptick in his usage. Tyreek Hill's speed remains a lethal weapon, and with improved quarterback play, he could easily surpass last season's disappointing performance. Lastly, T.J. Hockenson is poised to reclaim his status as a top tight end following his recovery from injury and a potential increase in targets. Each of these players represents potential value in upcoming drafts as they chase redemption.

George Kittle is the top tight end in the league, with a PFF receiving grade of 92.4 and a run-blocking grade of 70.8, showcasing his well-rounded skills. Trey McBride followed him closely, catching 111 passes for 1,146 yards but struggled with touchdowns, only scoring once through the air until Week 17. Brock Bowers of the Raiders had an impressive rookie season, setting a rookie tight end record with 1,194 receiving yards.

Mark Andrews rebounded from a slow start to lead in red-zone touchdowns, while Jonnu Smith found success in Miami, achieving personal bests across multiple categories. Austin Hooper remained a reliable option for the Patriots, while Isaiah Likely made the Ravens' tight end duo formidable. T.J. Hockenson and Sam LaPorta rounded out the top performances, both showing steady production despite injuries and team dynamics.

Fantasy managers should be cautious about relying on certain tight ends as touchdown regression looms. Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens, for example, had a stellar 2024 season with a 16.0% touchdown rate, which is unsustainable given his overall target volume and historic averages. Andrews’s low target count paired with a high touchdown catch rate raises concerns for 2025.

Tucker Kraft from the Green Bay Packers capitalized on teammate injuries but is expected to face stiffer competition in the upcoming season, making his touchdown total likely to dwindle from the seven he posted last year. The same can be said for Zach Ertz, who at 35, experienced a surprising resurgence in 2024 with seven touchdowns, but his age and status as a tight end make him a regression candidate for 2025.