Rams Acquire All-Pro CB Trent McDuffie from Chiefs in Trade

Los Angeles sends package of draft picks to Kansas City for standout cornerback

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Los Angeles Rams have agreed to a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs to acquire All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie in exchange for a package of draft picks, including the No. 29 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, along with fifth- and sixth-round picks in 2026 and a third-round pick in 2027. McDuffie, who is entering the final season of his rookie contract, is expected to sign a long-term extension with the Rams.

Why it matters

The move addresses a major need for the Rams, who entered the offseason looking to bolster their secondary with four cornerbacks set to become free agents. McDuffie has been one of Kansas City's top defenders over the past three seasons and is known for his versatility, playing both nickel and outside corner while excelling in coverage and as a blitzer.

The details

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Chiefs will receive the No. 29 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, along with fifth- and sixth-round picks in 2026 and a third-round pick in 2027. Kansas City exercised the fifth-year option on McDuffie's deal earlier this year, guaranteeing his $13.6 million salary for 2026. Last season, McDuffie recorded one interception, seven pass breakups, one forced fumble and one sack. His best season came in 2024, when he posted two interceptions, 13 pass breakups, 59 tackles, four quarterback hits and a forced fumble.

  • The Rams and Chiefs agreed to the trade on March 5, 2026.
  • McDuffie is entering the final season of his rookie contract in 2026.

The players

Trent McDuffie

An All-Pro cornerback who has been one of the Kansas City Chiefs' top defenders over the past three seasons, known for his versatility and excellence in coverage.

Patrick Mahomes

The quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who reacted to the trade by simply posting 'damn' on social media.

Jimmy Lake

The current defensive backs coach for the Los Angeles Rams, who previously coached McDuffie at the University of Washington.

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What they’re saying

“damn”

— Patrick Mahomes (Social media)

What’s next

The Rams are expected to sign McDuffie to a long-term contract extension after acquiring him in the trade.

The takeaway

This trade represents a significant move for the Rams, who are bolstering their secondary by acquiring one of the top young cornerbacks in the NFL. For the Chiefs, it marks the second time in three years they have traded away a top cornerback rather than extend him, raising questions about their long-term plans in the defensive backfield.