Rams trade for Chiefs CB Trent McDuffie in blockbuster deal

04 Mar 2026, 09:44 by Adam Grosbard · The Seattle Times

Les Snead said he would take a more aggressive approach to this offseason if quarterback Matthew Stafford returned to the Rams for another season. And with a week still to go until free agency opens, the Rams’ general manager made his first big move of the spring Wednesday.

The Rams are trading for Chiefs All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, sending the No. 29 pick in this year’s NFL draft as well as 2026 fifth- and sixth-round picks and a 2027 third-rounder, according to multiple media reports.

In four NFL seasons, McDuffie has been named to one All-Pro first team and a second team. The former first-round pick has three interceptions and 34 pass breakups in his career, as well as 5.5 sacks and eight forced fumbles.

McDuffie, 25, fills a major need for the Rams, who have three cornerbacks entering free agency and a fourth in Darious Williams who could be a release candidate this spring. But McDuffie also represents a serious upgrade in talent at the position, with an ability to line up outside or at the slot depending on matchups.

“We’re probably further ahead than the last time we chatted,” Snead said Tuesday about the Rams’ plans for the cornerback position. “Working through maybe players whose contracts are expiring in the league this year or maybe going to get cut.”

McDuffie, a former St. John Bosco standout, is entering the final year of his rookie contract but is expected to sign a long-term extension with the Rams, according to reports.

Despite the four draft picks sent out in the exchange, the Rams still have seven picks in the 2026 draft, including the Falcons’ first-round selection at No. 13 overall.

This story will be updated.