Chiefs’ Trent McDuffie breaks into elite NFL cornerback discussion

The Kansas City Chiefs just saw one of their brightest young defensive stars make national headlines. Trent McDuffie, Kansas City's versatile and explosive 24-year-old defensive back, has officially earned a top-five spot on the Pro Football Focus' (PFF) list of the best NFL players under 25.

This ranking doesn't just highlight a promising young talent, it positions him as one of the NFL's top defenders. According to PFF, he now ranks No. 5 overall and leads all corners in performance since 2023. His name is surging in the latest NFL cornerback rankings, drawing attention across the league.

PFF analyst Jonathon Macri praised McDuffie's PFF numbers in a recent article featuring the young defensive back.

“McDuffie went from being a top-five nickel cornerback in PFF overall grade for Steve Spagnuolo's defense in 2023 to a top-five outside cornerback in 2024. He is the NFL's highest-graded cornerback since 2023.”

That kind of elite jump confirms what many fans have suspected. McDuffie isn't just a solid player, he's a rising star poised to anchor the Chiefs secondary for years to come.

Statistically, McDuffie has delivered consistently. In 43 career games, he's recorded 183 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 27 pass deflections, and 7 forced fumbles, putting him among the NFL's most productive young defenders. His ability to dominate both inside and outside coverage sets him apart in today's league.

The Chiefs leaned heavily on his playmaking in 2024, finishing with a 15-2 record and clinching their ninth straight AFC West title. Though the season ended in a Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, McDuffie's rise was one of the most encouraging stories for Kansas City's future.

Whether he's locking down the slot or taking WR1s outside, McDuffie is now officially in the conversation for one of the best young corners in football. With PFF backing him statistically and the Chiefs building their defense around him, his ascent is just beginning.