As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for the 2025 season, the front office has shifted its attention to one of its brightest young stars: Trent McDuffie.

After securing key players like Chris Jones and Trey Smith with long-term deals, the Chiefs are now reportedly prioritizing an extension for the standout cornerback — a move that would lock in a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.

🔒 A Defensive Cornerstone
Drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, McDuffie has quickly become one of the league’s most reliable and versatile defensive backs. Whether lined up on the outside or in the slot, he’s delivered consistent, high-level play. His 2024 campaign included 15 passes defended, 3 forced fumbles, and an All-Pro honorable mention.

“He’s exactly what you want in a modern corner — smart, physical, and fearless,” one AFC scout told NFL.com. “You can trust him in big moments.”

💼 Contract Talk in Motion
With one year remaining on his rookie deal, Chiefs GM Brett Veach is reportedly in early discussions with McDuffie’s camp. The goal: secure a multi-year extension that reflects his elite play and rising value — while maintaining cap flexibility as the team continues to build around Patrick Mahomes.

Insiders suggest a deal could place McDuffie among the top 5 highest-paid corners in the NFL, likely in the $19–21 million/year range.

🔥 Why It Matters
In a pass-heavy AFC loaded with elite quarterbacks and wideouts, having a lockdown defender like McDuffie is crucial. Locking him in long-term ensures Kansas City’s defense remains a championship-caliber unit — fast, aggressive, and adaptable.

As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on whether the Chiefs can strike a deal in time to avoid distractions and keep their rising star focused solely on football.

🏈 Trent McDuffie isn’t just a key piece of the present — he’s the future of the Chiefs’ secondary.