One of the biggest free agent signings for the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2025 offseason has been cornerback Kristian Fulton.
Not only does Kansas City now have more quality depth at a premium position, but the addition of Fulton could allow Trent McDuffie to play in the slot more. Coach Andy Reid alluded to that possibility while speaking to the media on Monday.
“Yeah, should give you a little bit of flexibility,” Reid said on the acquisition of Fulton. “We’ve got some good corners on the roster, but I think his addition gives you more flexibility, I think is the best thing. Trent (McDuffie) is such a good inside player that Spags (defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) likes using them in there and has a has a nice package in there with him when he’s used them in there. I think it just gives gives you more flexibility to do that.”
McDuffie played mostly in the slot during his first two years in the NFL. Following the departure of L’Jarius Sneed last offseason, McDuffie moved primarily out on the boundary in 2024. McDuffie also spoke to the media on Monday and said that he is willing to do whatever is asked of him.
“During our actual exit interviews, they kind of talked about wanting to put me back at inside during certain situations,’ McDuffie said. “It kind of just allows me to influence the game a little bit more in there. A little bit more blitzing and things like that. But, as far as playing outside, matching up, I told them, anything I can do. Truly – outside, inside, cover, whatever you need me to do. That’s where I stand ever since I came in, and that’s what I’m going to continue to do.”
Whether it’s inside or outside, McDuffie has proven himself as an elite CB during this three-year NFL career. In 2023 he was named a First-Team All-Pro after playing 448 snaps in the slot and 300 on the boundary. Then in 2024, McDuffie earned Second-Team All-Pro honors, playing 765 snaps outside and just 149 inside.
If Fulton and Jaylen Watson can play well and stay healthy, McDuffie’s main role could be in the slot once again. With how versatile wide receivers are, good slot defenders are just as valuable as boundary CBs. McDuffie is one of the best tackling CBs in the league, and is lethal as a blitzer. His pressure on quarterback Brock Purdy late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LVIII was crucial in the Chiefs winning that game.
