'I really like how he plays' — Chiefs CB Trent McDuffie on matching up against Chargers' best offensive weapon

One of the biggest key matchups in Friday's Week 1 matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers will be cornerback Trent McDuffie against wide receiver Ladd McConkey.

McDuffie is coming off his second consecutive All-Pro season, recording 59 tackles (six for loss), two interceptions, 13 passes defensed (a career-high), one forced fumble, and one sack in 2024. McConkey had a huge rookie year, recording 82 catches for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns. His receptions and yardage totals are the most by a rookie in Chargers history.

McDuffie had high praise for McConkey while speaking to the media on Sunday.

"Last year we only played him once, he was hurt that second time we played him," McDuffie said. "So we really don't have film on him on one game that we played him, but from the things that I've seen, I really like how he plays. His space, separation out of the breaks, really good routes, and you can just tell his timing with (Chargers QB) Justin Herbert over the course of the year got better and better. He's a really good receiver, and I think he's going to be a really good challenge for us on the back end to go out there and see what we're about."

McConkey played well in his lone matchup against K.C. in 2024, recording five catches for 67 yards and one TD. He operates primarily out of the slot, which is where McDuffie plans to play more this season after primarily playing out of the boundary in 2024. During his first two years, McDuffie mainly lined up in the slot, and arguably played his best there.

That means we should see plenty of matchups between McDuffie and McConkey on Friday. That battle could go a significant way in determining the outcome of the game. If McDuffie is able to contain McConkey, look for Herbert to look for third-year WR Quentin Johnston, rookie Tre' Harris, and old reliable veteran Keenan Allen.