Chiefs salary cap: Should KC extend Trent McDuffie's contract in 2026?

Story byChiefs salary cap: Should KC extend Trent McDuffie's contract in 2026?John Dillon, Chiefs WireTue, February 10, 2026 at 2:43 AM UTC·1 min read

Trent McDuffie has developed into a star cornerback under the direction of Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

With his rookie contract set to expire after the 2026 season, should Chiefs general manager Brett Veach consider extending McDuffie's deal in the coming months?

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Here's a look at McDuffie's current contract:

Trent McDuffie 2026 salary

Sep 28, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie (22) takes the field prior to a game against the Baltimore Ravens at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The Chiefs have already exercised McDuffie's fifth-year option for 2026. Next season, the star defensive back will earn a base salary of $13,632,000 with no signing proration, roster bonus, or workout bonus.

In total, his 2026 earnings are set to amount to $13,632,000, which will take up 4.6% of Kansas City's cap space.

How much money could K.C. save in 2026 by extending Trent McDuffie?

Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie (22) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

OverTheCap.com projects that the Chiefs could save $9,933,600 in cap space by extending McDuffie's contract during the 2026 offseason.

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Should Brett Veach extend Trent McDuffie's contract?

Dec 17, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie (22) warms up before a game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Given that the Chiefs could save nearly $10,000,000 by extending McDuffie's contract — and that the veteran cornerback is among Kansas City's most valuable defenders — it seems likely that general manager Brett Veach will consider giving the former Washington Husky a new deal this year.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs cap space: Should Brett Veach extend Trent McDuffie in 2026?

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