The Kansas City Chiefs have not finalized a new contract with key defensive player Trent McDuffie, who is set to earn a base salary of $2.6 million for the upcoming season. Despite ongoing discussions over the past six weeks regarding a multiyear extension, no agreement has been reached ahead of the Chiefs’ season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 8, 2023, in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
McDuffie, entering his fourth NFL season, expressed his commitment to focus on the game rather than contract negotiations. “Moving forward now, really, it’s just about the season and about [Friday’s] game. I’m not too worried about the contract. That can just happen in the [next] offseason,” he stated.
The 2022 first-round draft pick had a standout performance last season, recording two interceptions, 13 pass breakups, 59 tackles, four quarterback hits, and one forced fumble. He has emerged as a crucial asset for the Chiefs, currently rated as the team’s second-best defender, trailing only pass rusher Chris Jones.
Chiefs general manager Brett Veach acknowledged the ongoing dialogue regarding McDuffie’s contract, stating, “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.” Veach also emphasized McDuffie’s importance to the team, noting that he is a priority in future negotiations.
McDuffie was the highest draft pick of Veach’s tenure since he became general manager in 2017. The Chiefs selected him with their first of two first-round picks following the trade of Tyreek Hill. Since then, McDuffie has become known for his exceptional coverage skills and durability on the field, having played 996 defensive snaps last season. His press-man coverage, aligning within three yards of opposing receivers on 63.5 percent of snaps, was the second-highest rate among defenders with at least 250 snaps at the perimeter over the past seven seasons.
In April, the Chiefs exercised the fifth-year option in McDuffie’s contract, guaranteeing a salary of $13.6 million for the 2026 season. Despite the lack of a new contract, McDuffie remains optimistic about his future with the team, saying, “I love being a Chief. I know the contract stuff will come.”
As the Chiefs prepare for their season opener, the focus remains on McDuffie’s performance on the field, with hopes that contract discussions will resume in the offseason.
