Trent McDuffie’s Top 100 ranking signals next big payday with Chiefs

McDuffie was a first-round selection of the Chiefs in an acclaimed draft class in 2022, a haul that also netted fellow first-rounder defensive end George Karlaftis, linebacker Leo Chenal, corner Jaylen Watson, running back Isiah Pacheco, safety Bryan Cook, and more.

The Chiefs grabbed McDuffie as an instinctive and fluid corner out of Washington with a high ceiling, but few could have predicted that he would become such a standout league-wide in a short amount of time. Even after missing the first third of his rookie year, McDuffie still turned in a standout effort in 11 games in 2022 and gave indications of being a lockdown option alongside L'Jarius Sneed on a Super Bowl contender.

From there, McDuffie went on to be named first-team All-Pro in his first full season in the league in 2023 in another Super Bowl run. Last year, he was a second-team All-Pro and earned his first votes for Defensive Player of the Year.

Coming into a contract season, McDuffie is primed to become a household name in 2025. The Chiefs signed Kristian Fulton in free agency, which means McDuffie should have the luxury of playing inside more than ever—a perfect match for his skill set.

McDuffie is also expected to earn a contract extension from the Chiefs soon enough, since his presence is the anchor in the team's secondary. His versatility allows him to play outside and in, and he elevates the play of everyone around him. McDuffie has proven to be a consistent force at a mercurial position, so there's little doubt the Chiefs will do all they can to retain him beyond his rookie deal.

The Chiefs already celebrated Creed Humphrey's inclusion at No. 93 overall, which was quite a bit lower than the league's best center should have been listed. More players will undoubtedly make the list, including defensive tackle Chris Jones and quarterback Patrick Mahomes.