Star Chiefs CB Trent McDuffie was perhaps the biggest snub on the NFL’s Pro Bowl rosters released on Thursday, but fans might not realize just how costly the egregious decision is for the third-year player.
Despite being a First-Team All-Pro in 2023 and on the fast track to receiving the same recognition in 2024, he’s never made a Pro Bowl team on the original ballot. Since that’s the case, his fifth-year option on his rookie deal will only be worth roughly $12.7 million.
If McDuffie had made one Pro Bowl team, it would jump to $17.1. If he’d made two? McDuffie would be looking at over $20.
People consider the Pro Bowl a joke, and that’s fine. But the Pro Bowl affects players’ pockets, and that’s where it’s unfortunate when a player gets snubbed. For example, Trent McDuffie has never been selected to the Pro Bowl on the original ballot, so his fifth-year option is… https://t.co/o8wmdAPGKL pic.twitter.com/dc83mzcCSI
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) January 2, 2025
Not only did McDuffie take over as the Chiefs’ No. 1 cornerback after trading L’Jarius Sneed to the Titans, but he’s taken massive steps forward to be even better than he was a year ago.
He’s notched 59 tackles with 13 deflected passes, two interceptions, and a forced fumble while surrendering a mere 82.9 passer rating when targeted in coverage. McDuffie gave up a 94.4 mark a year ago despite having Sneed’s help. If he was worthy of being an All-Pro in 2023, he certainly still is now.
In a cruel way, it’s positive news for Kansas City’s salary cap situation. Most assume that the Chiefs want to agree to a contract extension with him ultimately anyway, but they’re now looking at approximately a $9 million savings because Pro Bowl voters have no idea what they’re doing.
McDuffie ranks as the second-best corner out of 219 players at Pro Football Focus. By any measure, he’s one of the best defensive players in the sport. To leave him off the Pro Bowl roster is laughable and unfortunately for the 24-year-old rising star, he’s directly paying for the grave mistake.
If he wins another Super Bowl and earns the contract extension he deserves, he likely won’t mind. Even still, McDuffie deserves better from the NFL and shouldn’t be punished because voters overlooked his fantastic season.
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The Pro Bowl is supposed to highlight the best players in the NFL, but every year there are inevitably snubs. One of the most glaring omissions from this year’s Pro Bowl roster is Washington Football Team cornerback Trent McDuffie.
McDuffie has been an absolute standout in his rookie season, consistently shutting down some of the league’s top receivers and making game-changing plays. His 58 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 12 passes defended are among the best in the league for rookie cornerbacks.
But despite his impressive stats and impact on the field, McDuffie was left off the Pro Bowl roster in favor of more well-known players. And while being snubbed from the Pro Bowl might not seem like a big deal on the surface, it could have significant consequences for McDuffie and the Washington Football Team.
First and foremost, being selected to the Pro Bowl can have a huge impact on a player’s reputation and future earnings potential. Pro Bowl selections are often used as a benchmark for determining a player’s value in contract negotiations, endorsements, and Hall of Fame consideration. By not making the Pro Bowl in his rookie season, McDuffie could be missing out on valuable opportunities to increase his profile and earn more money.
Additionally, the Pro Bowl is a valuable networking opportunity for players to connect with teammates, coaches, and other players around the league. By not being selected, McDuffie is missing out on the chance to build relationships that could benefit him both on and off the field in the future.
Furthermore, the Pro Bowl is a chance for players to showcase their skills on a national stage and prove themselves against the best in the league. McDuffie has already proven himself as a top cornerback in the NFL, but a Pro Bowl selection would have solidified his status as one of the elite players at his position.
Overall, the snub of Trent McDuffie from the Pro Bowl roster is more costly than many might realize. It not only diminishes his reputation and earning potential but also deprives him of valuable networking opportunities and the chance to showcase his skills on a national stage. Hopefully, this oversight will only fuel McDuffie’s fire to continue to prove himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.
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