Hold on to your helmets, Chiefs fans, because the rumor mill is churning with a head-scratching proposal: trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams. But here's where it gets controversial... Is McDuffie truly the All-Pro powerhouse his accolades suggest? While he snagged first-team All-Pro honors as a slot corner in 2023, it's worth noting that 2023 was the first year the NFL even recognized slot corners in All-Pro selections. His 2024 second-team nod as an outside corner feels more like a reputation-driven award than a reflection of his actual performance. Advanced metrics paint a different picture, revealing a 61% completion rate allowed, six touchdowns surrendered, and a passer rating of 91.2 against him. And let's not forget the 11 penalties flagged against him, adding hidden yardage and first downs to his opponents' tally. Is McDuffie truly elite, or is his All-Pro status a product of timing and reputation?
Shifting gears to the offensive line, the Chiefs might be tempted to bolster their right tackle position after parting ways with Jawaan Taylor. Enter Larry Borom, a former Mizzou standout and teammate of Nick Bolton. Borom's 2025 performance with the Dolphins was impressive, allowing only two sacks and 15 total pressures on 404 pass-blocking snaps. While his run-blocking could use some refinement, pairing him with Trey Smith could create a formidable combo-blocking duo.
And this is the part most people miss... The Chiefs' 2026 schedule includes nine road games, with only one potentially taking place internationally – against the Falcons in Spain. If they don't land that matchup, they'll be staying domestic. Speaking of international games, the NFL will unveil the opponents for all nine international matchups this spring when the full 2026 schedule is released.
Looking around the league, the Vikings are reportedly open to trading Pro Bowl edge rusher Jonathan Greenard due to salary cap constraints. This could be a golden opportunity for teams like the Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, and yes, even the Chiefs. Greenard, despite a quieter 2025 season, boasts a history of double-digit sack years and would inject much-needed juice into Kansas City's pass rush, especially after releasing Mike Danna.
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are facing a familiar foe: a porous offensive line. Drake Maye's 21 sacks in four playoff games set an unfortunate NFL record. With $40.2 million in cap space (potentially more if they release Stefon Diggs), the Patriots have the resources to address this glaring weakness and protect their promising young quarterback.
In other news, Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III, fresh off his Super Bowl MVP performance, is expected to hit free agency next week. The Seahawks seem unlikely to franchise tag him, opening the door for a bidding war. Kyler Murray's future with the Arizona Cardinals remains uncertain, with reports suggesting he prefers a release rather than a trade. And in a surprising turn of events, Chicago Bears center Drew Dalman, a Pro Bowl selection and key cog in their dominant offensive line, has announced his retirement at just 27 years old.
Back to the Chiefs, with a high draft pick in their possession, the question arises: is investing another first-round selection in the offensive line, particularly at right tackle, unnecessary overkill? Left tackle Josh Simmons and left guard Kingsley Suamataia are showing promise, and with Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith anchoring the interior, the line appears solid. Is it wise to double down on the offensive line, or should the Chiefs address other needs with their valuable draft capital?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! And don't forget to follow Arrowhead Pride on social media for all the latest Chiefs news and analysis.
