Chiefs GM Brett Veach Looking to Extend CB Trent McDuffie

Kansas City has been clearing cap space to make offseason moves, including retaining their All-Pro cornerback.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 3:49am

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The Kansas City Chiefs are prioritizing extending the contract of star cornerback Trent McDuffie this offseason. General Manager Brett Veach said the team has had "a lot of dialogue" with McDuffie and wants to keep him "for the long-term" after he's proven to be one of the best defensive backs in the NFL over his four seasons in Kansas City, including playing a key role in the team's back-to-back Super Bowl victories.

Why it matters

Retaining McDuffie is crucial for the Chiefs as they look to continue their championship window with Patrick Mahomes at quarterback. McDuffie has been a lockdown corner and a key part of the team's defensive success, so keeping him in the fold long-term will be a top priority for the front office.

The details

The Chiefs traded up to draft McDuffie in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and he has since earned two All-Pro selections. Along with McDuffie, the team also has to figure out the future of cornerback Jaylen Watson, who is also entering the final year of his rookie contract.

  • The Chiefs recently restructured Patrick Mahomes' contract and released defensive end Mike Danna to clear up salary cap space.
  • Veach spoke about the team's plans for McDuffie ahead of the 2026 NFL Combine.

The players

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs.

Trent McDuffie

An All-Pro cornerback for the Kansas City Chiefs who is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jaylen Watson

A cornerback for the Kansas City Chiefs who is also entering the final year of his rookie contract.

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What they’re saying

“We had a lot of dialogue with Trent last spring, last summer. He's first out of the gate. Looking forward to get with him and obviously Trent's a great player.”

— Brett Veach, General Manager, Kansas City Chiefs (ksn.com)

“We'd certainly love to have Trent back for the long-term.”

— Brett Veach, General Manager, Kansas City Chiefs (ksn.com)

What’s next

The Chiefs will need to work out a contract extension with Trent McDuffie before the start of the 2026 season, as he is entering the final year of his rookie deal.

The takeaway

Retaining star cornerback Trent McDuffie is a top priority for the Chiefs this offseason as they look to maintain their championship contender status. Keeping their All-Pro defensive back in the fold long-term will be crucial for the team's continued success.