Chiefs Lock All-Pro in Long-Term Deal to Bolster Defense

Kansas City, MO – April 23, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs solidified their defensive foundation Wednesday, signing All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to a four-year, $96 million extension with $65 million guaranteed, sources confirmed to ESPN. The deal, averaging $24 million annually, locks in the 24-year-old through 2029, addressing a critical need after a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss exposed vulnerabilities against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Drafted 21st overall in 2022, McDuffie earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2023 and 2024, showcasing elite versatility with 3 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, and a PFF grade of 88.2 last season (NFL.com). His shift back to nickel cornerback, enabled by the Chiefs’ signing of Kristian Fulton (2-year, $20M), amplifies his impact as a blitzer and coverage star.

“Trent’s our anchor,” GM Brett Veach told reporters. With $12.7 million in cap space, the Chiefs structured the contract with a $20 million signing bonus, yielding an $8 million cap hit in 2025 (Spotrac). The extension, just shy of Jaycee Horn’s $100 million benchmark, secures McDuffie’s prime years at a premium value for his youth and upside.

The move comes as McDuffie enters the final year of his $14 million rookie deal, with a fifth-year option looming for 2026. “I love this city and this team,” McDuffie told reporters, affirming his offseason desire to stay long-term. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo praised his game-changing presence: “Trent elevates everyone.”

The Chiefs’ defense, a top-10 unit in 2024, struggled against Philadelphia’s passing attack in the Super Bowl. McDuffie’s extension, paired with Fulton’s addition, positions Kansas City to dominate in 2025. With eight draft picks, including No. 31, Veach now turns to left tackle and wide receiver, ensuring Mahomes has a championship-caliber defense backing his pursuit of another Super Bowl.