Chiefs Face CB Dilemma: Watson or McDuffie?

The Kansas City Chiefs are navigating a challenging offseason, with several key players set to hit free agency. Among them, cornerback Jaylen Watson is a notable name generating buzz. ESPN's Nate Taylor identified Watson as a pending free agent to watch, highlighting that extending Trent McDuffie, a two-time All-Pro, is a greater priority.

Watson, a seventh-round pick from 2022, has proven to be a capable No. 2 cornerback, delivering a productive season with 42 tackles, an interception, and four pass breakups in just 10 games. His performance metrics, including a 77.5 passer rating allowed in coverage and a high Pro Football Focus grade, make him valuable. However, his estimated free agency earnings vary from $11.4 million to $19.8 million annually.

Balancing Watson's potential contract with a lucrative deal for McDuffie presents a significant salary cap hurdle. While McDuffie has a fifth-year option, securing his long-term future is paramount. Other 2022 draft classmates, Joshua Williams and Nazeeh Johnson, also face free agency, but are considered more replaceable than Watson. The Chiefs are also evaluating other defensive backs like Nohl Williams, Kristian Fulton, Kevin Knowles, Chris Roland-Wallace, and Chamarri Conner to fill potential gaps.