The Kansas City Chiefs have begun discussions to extend the contract of cornerback Trent McDuffie, who is entering the fifth year of his rookie deal after the team exercised his fifth-year option last offseason. The negotiations started this week as part of the Chiefs’ effort to secure the talented defensive back long term.
Chiefs’ Commitment to McDuffie Confirmed at Scouting Combine
Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach emphasized during a press conference at the scouting combine that McDuffie is a priority in their contract talks. Veach revealed that McDuffie would be the first player the team speaks with this week about a potential extension.
“We had a lot of dialogue with Trent last spring, last summer,”
Veach said.
“He’s first out of the gate, I think, tomorrow. So, looking forward to getting with him. And, obviously, Trent’s a great player and we’ll see what we can do there.”
Veach also expressed the organization’s clear desire to keep McDuffie with the Chiefs beyond his current deal.
“But, certainly would love to have Trent back and for the long-term,”
he added.
McDuffie’s Performance and Draft Background
At 25 years old, Trent McDuffie made his mark at the University of Washington, starting for three years and earning first-team All Pac-12 honors in 2021, following a second-team selection in 2020. The Chiefs traded up in the 2022 NFL Draft to select him 21st overall, reflecting their high valuation of his talent.
His rookie contract was a four-year deal worth just under $14 million, including a signing bonus of over $7 million. This agreement also included a fifth-year team option, which Kansas City chose to exercise in April of last year.
Strong 2025 Season Highlights McDuffie’s Value
During the 2025 NFL season, McDuffie started 13 games for the Chiefs, demonstrating his impact on the defense with 63 tackles, a sack, seven pass defenses, one forced fumble, and an interception. His consistent production is a key reason the team is working quickly to keep him on their roster.
What’s Next for McDuffie and the Chiefs
As negotiations continue, the outcome of these contract talks will shape the Chiefs’ defensive outlook moving forward. Retaining McDuffie could maintain stability in the secondary and solidify the team’s defensive strategy for coming seasons. Updates on the progress of these discussions are expected soon.
“We had a lot of dialogue with Trent last spring, last summer,”
Veach said.
“He’s first out of the gate, I think, tomorrow. So, looking forward to getting with him. And, obviously, Trent’s a great player and we’ll see what we can do there.”
– Brett Veach, Kansas City Chiefs GM
“But, certainly would love to have Trent back and for the long-term.”
– Brett Veach, Kansas City Chiefs GM
