One of the best drafts in recent memory that the Kansas City Chiefs have had came in 2022 when they selected defensive end George Karlaftis and cornerback Trent McDuffie in the first round.

Karlaftis and McDuffie made instant impacts as rookies and have been cornerstone pieces of the Chiefs’ defense upon their arrival. In three seasons Karlaftis has recorded 115 total tackles, 24.5 sacks, 93 quarterback pressures, and one forced fumble. During that time McDuffie has posted 183 total tackles, two interceptions, 27 passes defensed, seven forced fumbles, and 4.5 sacks.

The fifth-year option window for the 2022 draft class opened back in January, and closes on May 1. Neither Karlaftis or McDuffie’s has been exercised, despite being just two weeks away from that deadline. All drafted rookies are signed to four-year contracts, and teams have the option to extend players selected in the first round for a fifth year.

However, long-term contract extensions can still be worked out without using the fifth-year option. The Chiefs are currently in long-term contract negotiations with right guard Trey Smith, but general manager Brett Veach hasn’t forgotten about Karlaftis and McDuffie.

“Once this process (the 2025 NFL Draft) ends, we’ll be in discussions with Trey, trying to get him done,” Veach told the media in his pre-draft press conference. “And then I’m sure at some point here, with George and Trent, we’re going to have dialog with them.”

This year’s draft class happens to be pretty deep at the defensive end and cornerback positions, leading some to speculate that Karlaftis or McDuffie could eventually be replaced. However, Veach made it clear that isn’t the case, even if K.C. does select DEs or CBs during the draft.

“I don’t think that it’ll affect it at all,” Veach said. “I think those are players (Karlaftis and McDuffie) that you want in a Kansas City uniform for a long time. Those are two premium positions, so you can never have enough of those players. As far as a decision like a fifth-year option on either those guys, I don’t think that would come into play.”

Veach hit the nail on the head when referring to Karlaftis and McDuffie’s positions being at a premium. Good pass rushers and lockdown CBs don’t grow on trees, and the Chiefs need to find a way to keep both of those guys in K.C. for the long haul. Both Karlaftis and McDuffie are in their primes and will help the Chiefs’ defense remain one of the best units in the league for the foreseeable future.