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Q&A With Trey McBride: Colorado State Career, NFL Combine Experience, Why He’s TE1 In This Year’s Draft

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Trey McBride at the Senior Bowl.

Just about every NFL analyst has Colorado State’s Trey McBride ranked as the No. 1 tight end in this year’s class, and understandably so.

In his final season at the collegiate level, McBride had 90 receptions for 1,121 yards and a touchdown. While he clearly showed that he can be an impact player in the passing game, he also proved that he can put his hand in the dirt and block.

McBride’s production in 2021 earned him first-team Associated Press All-American honors. He also received the John Mackey Award, which is presented to the most outstanding tight end in college.

We caught up with Trey McBride to discuss his time at Colorado State, why he’s the most complete tight end in this year’s class and more.

The Spun: You had the chance to compete at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. How were those experiences?

Trey McBride: It’s been unbelievable. It’s been so cool. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’m blessed just to be able to go through this unique process.

The Spun: How would you grade your performance at the NFL Combine?

TM: Being out there with the best tight ends in the country and being able to show the country what I can do is cool. I thought I interviewed very well. I met with a lot of teams. On the field, I thought I caught the ball and did all those drills perfectly. It was a long week, but I had a lot of fun.

The Spun: Your numbers since 2019 are just jaw-dropping. What would you say you showed on tape for NFL teams?

TM: I think I’m a complete tight end. I’m a guy who can be a physical blocker and move defensive ends. But I’m also a playmaker and a guy who can catch anything thrown to me. I was put in position to make a lot of plays at Colorado State, and I did just that. I’m a tough, physical, nasty tight end, but I’m also a playmaker.

The Spun: Who is your favorite tight end to watch on film?

TM: There are so many good tight ends right now to watch, and so many players do things in a unique way. I like to watch Mark Andrews. He’s one of the best in the league. I like the nastiness and completeness of George Kittle. He can be that physical guy at the point of attack, but he can also make plays as a pass catcher.

The Spun: What will you miss most about your time in college?

TM: I think the camaraderie and brotherhood of being with those guys. I played there with my older brother, so that was special to me. Playing at the college level with my brother means the world to me. The whole college atmosphere is fun. The fan base is so passionate. Having the students there to support you is a lot of fun.

The Spun: Most analysts have said you’re the No. 1 tight end in this class. What’s something you do well that separates you from the field?

TM: I think being a complete guy. I’m a true tight end that blocks and catches. My blocking ability is what sets me apart from the group. I think this draft class features so many tremendous pass catchers, but I think my blocking sets me apart. 

The Spun: We’ve seen rookie tight ends struggle in the past, but Kyle Pitts just had a great year. How confident are you that you’ll be an impact player from Day 1?

TM: I’m confident. I know there will be that learning curve and the speed of the game will be faster. But honestly, I’m excited to showcase what I’m able to do. I know I can make plays and I know I can play in this league. I’m confident I can make an immediate impact on any team.

The Spun: How much do you enjoy the face-to-face meetings with teams?

TM: It’s been really unique. It’s cool to see how these coaches talk about football. Maybe we use different terminology, but it’s cool to see their vision for me. I’m really enjoying this whole process.

The Spun: What has motivated you throughout this process?

TM: Honestly, I don’t really need a ton of motivation. This is what I live for, this is what I love doing. I love playing this game. I just want to be the best. I guess that’s what motivates me to get up and go every day. 

The Spun: What will it mean to you to hear your name during the draft?

TM: It’s going to mean the world to me. I’ve dreamt of that moment my whole life. Just to hear my name called is going to be emotional. It’s a moment that I can’t wait for.

McBride checks off just about every box for NFL coaches. He can help in pass protection, has great body control when it comes to making contested catches, and he takes pride in run blocking.

At this point, it would be a surprise if Trey McBride isn’t the first tight end to come off the board.

You can read more of our interviews with athletes or media stars here.

The post Q&A With Trey McBride: Colorado State Career, NFL Combine Experience, Why He’s TE1 In This Year’s Draft appeared first on The Spun.