The Indianapolis Colts are in dire need of help in the tight end room heading into the 2022 NFL Draft after the retirement of Jack Doyle and the lack of free agent additions at the position. The only problem – Chris Ballard and the Colts have a lot of needs while simultaneously lacking a first round pick thanks to a swing and a miss on Carson Wentz. Fortunately, there are a few talented options that should be available for Indianapolis in the second round or later. One such option is today’s scouting target, Trey McBride from Colorado State.
Measurables
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 246
40 Yard: —
10 Yard: —
Arm Length: 32 1/2″
Hand Size: 10 1/8″
Vertical: 33″
3 Cone: —
Broad Jump: 117″
Bench: 18
Position Specific
Positives in Pass Game: McBride is a decent route-runner who is capable of creating separation from defenders with his body control and athleticism. Against zone coverage, he exhibits an ability to locate and take advantage of soft spots on a routine basis. His hands are phenomenal, making it clear that he is a natural pass catcher. He is more likely to bulldoze defenders than make them miss.
Negatives in Pass Game: Despite a high production level, McBride struggles to capitalize in the red zone. This can be attributed to a lack of length, making it difficult for him to provide the quarterback with a large area to throw to. He does lack elite elusiveness for the position after the catch will rarely make defenders miss in the open field. As a route-runner, McBride has a tendency to round off his routes as opposed to making sharp, crisp breaks.
Positives in Run Game: He is a more than willing participant when asked to block. McBride eagerly steps into the trenches and gives his all in attempting to block opposing defenders.
Negatives in Run Game: As good as it is to see him willingly block, McBride does struggle to sustain blocks. He has a tendency to get his hands outside the frame of opponents and fails to hold his ground. The jump in talent should only serve to magnify this problem in the NFL.
The Wrap-up
Summary: Overall, McBride is a good but not great athlete who would best be utilized in a creative pass-heavy offense. He provides a quarterback with a reliable target who should prove capable of picking up yards when called upon. Despite struggling to sustain blocks, he should still be capable of helping out in the run game with his willingness to get dirty in the trenches. Much like a Toyota Prius, McBride may not be flashy but he can be counted on.
Injury Concerns: McBride’s medical history is clear of any real concerns. The former Colorado State tight end has stayed healthy through college despite a steady workload.
Character/Off-Field Concerns: McBride, by all accounts, is a respected team leader who should serve as a net positive for any locker room.
Projected Role: Starting Tight End
Strong Points: Hands, Effort, Leadership
Weak Points: Red Zone Production, Route-Running
Exposures: Vanderbilt (2021), Toledo (2021), Utah State (2021)
