Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride walked back his June podcast remarks criticizing the state’s fanbase during a Saturday training camp availability on July 25, 2026, admitting he misspoke after previously claiming the team lacked local support due to the high volume of out-of-state transplants.
Cardinals tight end Trey McBride cleared the air with local reporters after weeks of scrutiny stemming from an appearance on the Bussin’ with the Boys podcast. During his June 30 interview on the program, McBride suggested there were no true local fans because of the transient nature of the region’s population.
The remarks immediately ruffled feathers among supporters who pointed out the challenges of backing a franchise that has struggled to put together consistent winning seasons. Following Saturday’s training camp practice, the All-Pro tight end offered an explicit mea culpa regarding the delivery of his message.
“Yeah, I probably shouldn’t have said that. It came out wrong, and obviously the fanbase is great. We have a tremendous fanbase. Arizona’s been here, loyal fans to all the sports teams here, and we’re very lucky to have a lot of these guys, and we’re going to have a great season. We’re going to win games and we’re going to make sure those fans have something proud to cheer for.”
Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals tight end
What Trey McBride Said on Bussin’ with the Boys
The controversy traced back to McBride’s June podcast appearance, where he attempted to explain the unique atmosphere surrounding home games at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. He pointed to the shifting demographics of the local population as a core hurdle for building a traditional home-field advantage.
“Living in Arizona, no one’s from Arizona. Everyone has kinda moved in from another state, so they’re all fans of their own teams, so now you have the Arizona that sits there and there’s no Arizona fans in Arizona. So, it’s a tough deal. Hopefully, we start winning some games and we can bring some of those fans back.”
Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals tight end
State Farm Stadium Attendance and Franchise Realities
The underlying frustration expressed by players and supporters reflects broader attendance figures and a difficult stretch for the franchise. Arizona ranked second to last among all NFL teams in total home game attendance during the previous season.
Competitive struggles heavily influence ticket sales and stadium crowds. The Cardinals have reached the playoffs just once since 2016 and face a demanding path inside an NFC West division housing multiple Super Bowl contenders. When teams struggle to secure victories, filling a stadium surrounded by visiting fanbases becomes an uphill battle.
Trey McBride’s Record-Breaking Production on the Field
While the fanbase debate generated headlines, McBride’s value to the roster remains undisputed. He enters the 2026 campaign fresh off a massive contract extension and an All-Pro season where he established himself as a central pillar of the organization’s long-term future alongside safety Budda Baker.
McBride hauled in 126 receptions for 1,239 yards and 11 touchdowns last year, setting a positional record for single-season catches despite navigating a midseason quarterback change.
“I love it here in Arizona, and I hope they love me too, but it’s a special place. The fans are great, and I’m excited for this year to give them something to be proud of.”
Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals tight end
As training camp continues in Glendale, the focus shifts entirely to the upcoming schedule. With quarterback Jacoby Brissett participating as a hold-in during minicamp over a contract dispute and rookie running back Jeremiyah Love joining the offense, the team aims to build enough momentum on the field to fill State Farm Stadium seats when the season gets underway.
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