The Arizona Cardinals have appointed tight end Trey McBride as a team captain for the remainder of the season, according to “reporting from Yahoo Sports.”
The leadership change follows the departure of quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who recently left the “Arizona Cardinals roster” to join the “Baltimore Ravens.”
Head coach Mike LaFleur announced the decision during a team meeting on Wednesday.
LaFleur explained that the promotion felt appropriate given McBride’s consistent performance and influence within the locker room.
“He was very close in the vote, and it was the right time,” “LaFleur said according to Cards Wire.”
The coach further noted that the tight end earned the role through both his on-field production and his professional habits.
“He’s a stud and he deserves being captain,” the coach added.
McBride has achieved significant milestones this season, including setting an NFL record for receptions by a tight end in his first five seasons with 420 total catches.
His 73 receptions this season represent a club record for the first nine games, surpassing the previous mark held by Larry Fitzgerald.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s matchup against the “Los Angeles Rams,” McBride is in a position to break several additional franchise and league records.
With two receptions, he would pass Fitzgerald for the most catches in franchise history through the first 10 games of a season.
He is also nearing a historic streak, as he could become only the second player in NFL history to record at least seven receptions in 12 consecutive games.
LaFleur praised the player’s authenticity and work ethic, stating that he practices with the intensity of someone who wants to be the best in the world.
The transition marks a pivotal moment for the team as they head into the final eight games of the schedule.
McBride continues to distinguish himself as a foundational leader for the organization.