The Los Angeles Rams have secured a cornerstone for their defense, reaching an agreement with star cornerback Trent McDuffie, Yankee Scores reports
The deal comes just days after the Rams acquired McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs in a trade package centered around the No. 29 pick in the 2026 NFL draft, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Historic contract details
McDuffie’s new four-year, $124 million extension includes $100 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. At 25, he surpasses the annual salaries of Sauce Gardner ($30.1M) and Derek Stingley Jr. ($30M), while also breaking Stingley’s record for guaranteed money at the position.
The three highest-paid cornerbacks in NFL history were the first three corners taken in the 2022 NFL Draft 💰💰💰
1. Trent McDuffie (21st pick): $31M APY
2. Sauce Gardner (4th pick): $30.1M APY
3. Derek Stingley Jr. (3rd pick): $30M APY pic.twitter.com/NgKoS8Jw9x
— Football Forever (@fballforeverhq) March 9, 2026
Why the Rams made the move
Cornerback was a glaring need for Los Angeles entering free agency, especially with four pending free agents and Darious Williams announcing his retirement. By landing McDuffie, the Rams addressed that void with one of the league’s premier defenders. The trade and contract will become official Wednesday when the new league year begins.
McDuffie’s rise
A Southern California native, McDuffie starred at St. John Bosco High before excelling in Kansas City. He was named first-team All-Pro in 2023 and has posted three interceptions, 34 pass breakups, 5.5 sacks, and 246 tackles in 56 career games. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he has allowed just 6.0 yards per target over the past two seasons, ranking third among defensive backs with at least 150 targets.
Looking ahead
The Rams still hold the No. 13 pick in the upcoming draft, giving them flexibility to add more talent around McDuffie. For Los Angeles, this move not only fills a critical need but also reunites McDuffie with his hometown roots, fulfilling a wish he once expressed to play close to family.
