Offseason changes to the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense have forced adjustments on the team’s depth chart, with some players taking on new responsibilities.
One such player is third-year defensive back Trent McDuffie, who will be taking over as Kansas City’s top cornerback this season. In comments to the media on Monday, McDuffie made it clear that he not backing down from the challenge of leading Steve Spagnuolo’s defense in 2024.
“Last year, [I was] All-Pro, but I felt like I still was learning so much,” McDuffie explained. “Last year was really my first time at the nickel position, Then this year [with] L.J. [L’Jarius Sneed] leaving moving to the outside, [it is] a whole different ballgame. On the outside, on the island, you got to be a technician and come into this camp knowing that I might have to do some more of that.
“Each and every day, I’ve been just working little by little on technique and just trying to perfect myself out there. I’m still growing and learning, and I feel like that’s one thing that wakes me up every day.”
McDuffie knows his new role will require constant coverage on the opposing team’s best wide receiver. He is embracing the challenge and isn’t concerned about the adjustments.
“I told Spags [Steve Spagnuolo] wherever you need me like I always said, that’s where you can put me,” said McDuffie. “Going against the best of the best, that’s why we play this game to go against the best of the best, so be able to compete no matter who it’s against. I’m ready to do that.”
McDuffie with the PBU.
Pass from Carson Wentz intended for Washington. pic.twitter.com/xaxmshjDBx
— Joshua Woodley (@jtothawood) July 29, 2024
The evolution of McDuffie’s playing style will determine so much about the Chiefs’ defense in 2024.