On Tuesday morning, Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead spoke with reporters via video conference to talk about the team’s offseason strategy ahead of free agency and the draft over the next two months.
One particular takeaway from the press conference — posted on X by Nate Atkins, senior Rams writer for The Athletic — grabbed the attention of Chiefs Kingdom, and it’s easy to see why.
After setting the table by describing Snead as sounding “aggressive to maximize Matthew Stafford’s window,” Atkins pointed out three notes:
If it hasn’t become clear why Kansas City should take note of Snead’s message, here’s a hint: Chiefs’ cornerback Trent McDuffie — who is currently seeking an extension before the final year of his rookie deal — has been named to the All-Pro team twice in four seasons. In 2023, he was named first-team All-Pro slot cornerback.
McDuffie has proven himself as a difference-making player, worthy of the long-term deal he is likely seeking with Kansas City. That said, general manager Brett Veach has to monitor the trade market in a case like this, knowing he is not the only front office that would feel confident offering the 25-year old cornerback a worthwhile payday with long-term security.
Lake has been a renowned defensive backs coach over his career, particularly with the Washington Huskies, where he recruited and developed a slew of NFL Draft prospects who have gone on to carve out strong career at the next level. One of those Huskies was McDuffie himself. In fact, Lake served as McDuffie’s primary recruiter, and their relationship was a key reason why McDuffie committed to Washington in the first place.
In 2025, the Rams’ secondary might have been the difference between a win and a loss in the postseason. The Seattle Seahawks had success through the air in the NFC Championship, and Los Angeles may see McDuffie as an instant boost towards preventing that from happening next season.
It would be interesting to know what the compensation package could look like from Los Angeles, but it’s reasonable to discuss either pick No. 13 or No. 29 as the centerpiece in a deal for McDuffie, one of the best young cornerbacks in the league.