The Kansas City Chiefs have not reached a new contract agreement with key defensive player Trent McDuffie, who is set to earn $2.6 million this season. Negotiations for a multiyear extension have been ongoing for the past six weeks, but as the Chiefs prepare to kick off their season against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 8, 2024, no deal has been finalized.
Despite the lack of a new contract, McDuffie remains focused on the upcoming season. The 2022 first-round draft pick expressed his intention to play out the final year of his rookie contract, stating, “I’m not too worried about the contract. That can just happen in the [next] offseason. Let’s just go out there and have a great year.” This marks McDuffie’s fourth season in the NFL, during which he has established himself as a vital component of the Chiefs’ defense.
McDuffie, rated as the Chiefs’ second-best defender after pass rusher Chris Jones, enjoyed a standout season in 2023. He recorded two interceptions and 13 pass breakups, both career highs, alongside 59 tackles and four quarterback hits. His impressive coverage skills have made him a prominent figure in the team’s defensive strategy.
In an interview, Brett Veach, the Chiefs’ general manager, acknowledged ongoing discussions about McDuffie’s contract. He emphasized the player’s importance to the team, saying, “We definitely have had dialogue. He’s a guy that’s obviously a special player. We’re going to continue that dialogue, and hopefully something gets worked out. I think things have been good. Trent is obviously going to be a priority.”
McDuffie was the highest draft pick during Veach’s tenure as general manager, having been selected with the first of two first-round picks acquired in the trade involving Tyreek Hill. Since joining the team, he has become known for his defensive durability, having played 996 defensive snaps last season. His press-man coverage rate was among the highest in the league, with a remarkable 63.5 percent of snaps played within three yards of opposing receivers.
Earlier in the year, the Chiefs exercised the fifth-year option in McDuffie’s contract, guaranteeing his $13.6 million salary for the 2026 season. While his future contract remains uncertain, McDuffie expressed his commitment to the team: “I love being a Chief. I know the contract stuff will come.”
As the Chiefs prepare for their season opener in Sao Paulo, Brazil, McDuffie’s focus is clearly on the game ahead. The team will look to build on last season’s successes as they face the Chargers in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
