Chiefs Exercise Fifth-Year Options on McDuffie, Karlaftis

The Kansas City Chiefs will exercise the fifth-year options on the contracts of cornerback Trent McDuffie and defensive end George Karlaftis, according to ESPN sources. Both players were selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft—McDuffie at No. 21 and Karlaftis at No. 30—and are now secured through the 2026 season.

General manager Brett Veach had previously hinted at the move ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, stating, “Those are players that you want in a Kansas City uniform for a long time.” The performance of both players over their first three seasons has justified that commitment.

McDuffie has started 43 regular-season games and 10 playoff contests, recording eight forced fumbles, 4.5 sacks, and two interceptions. His standout play earned him All-Pro honors in consecutive seasons—first-team in 2023 and second-team in the following year—solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense.

Karlaftis has also made a significant impact, tallying 24.5 sacks in the regular season and another eight in the postseason. He shared the team lead with 10.5 sacks in 2023 and led Kansas City in 2024 with eight sacks. His consistency as a pass rusher has been vital to the team’s success.

With both players locked in for an additional year, the Chiefs continue to reinforce their defensive foundation as they aim to remain contenders in the seasons ahead.