Should the Chiefs Trade for DeVonta Smith? A Fan’s Perspective on the McDuffie Swap Proposal

Kansas City, MO – May 26, 2025

As a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan, I couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow when I stumbled across a trade proposal on X from user Jaylen (@Comxthzine). The idea? The Chiefs would send star cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for wide receiver DeVonta Smith. It’s a bold suggestion that’s sparked heated debate among fans, and I’m left wondering: should the Chiefs really consider this trade?

The Trade Proposal: McDuffie for Smith
Jaylen’s post highlights the Chiefs’ well-known need for wide receiver help. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm, Kansas City has been searching for reliable targets to bolster their passing game. Pairing DeVonta Smith with the recently acquired Hollywood Brown could create a dynamic duo, giving Mahomes the weapons he needs to keep the Chiefs’ offense elite. Smith, a 2021 first-round pick, has proven himself as a precise route-runner with 240 receptions, 3,178 yards, and 19 touchdowns over his first four seasons with the Eagles.

On the flip side, the Eagles are reportedly in desperate need of a lockdown cornerback. Trent McDuffie, a 2022 first-round pick for the Chiefs, fits the bill perfectly. In 2024, McDuffie recorded 61 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 12 passes defended, earning Pro Bowl honors and cementing his status as one of the NFL’s top young defensive backs. His versatility and playmaking ability have been crucial to Kansas City’s secondary.

The Chiefs’ Perspective: Do We Need Smith That Badly?
As a fan, I get the appeal of adding DeVonta Smith. The Chiefs’ receiving corps has been a concern, especially after losing Tyreek Hill in 2022. While Hollywood Brown brings speed, Smith’s reliability and ability to get open could take the offense to another level. Imagine Mahomes slinging passes to Smith, Brown, and Travis Kelce—it’s a dream scenario for any Chiefs fan. Smith’s youth (26 years old) and contract, which runs through 2026, make him an attractive long-term piece.

But here’s where I hesitate: Trent McDuffie is a cornerstone of our defense. At just 24, he’s already one of the best cornerbacks in the league, and his chemistry with the secondary—alongside players like Justin Reid and Chamarri Conner—has been key to our success. Trading him away could leave a gaping hole in our defense, especially in a pass-heavy AFC with quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Josh Allen to contend with. Yes, we have depth with players like Jaylen Watson, but losing McDuffie feels like a massive risk.

Financial and Strategic Considerations
The Chiefs are already strapped for cap space, sitting at $10.7 million as of May 2025. McDuffie’s rookie contract runs through 2026, with a fifth-year option that keeps him cost-controlled. Smith, meanwhile, is likely to command a significant extension soon, which could strain Kansas City’s budget further, especially with other stars like George Karlaftis also nearing new deals. From a strategic standpoint, the Chiefs’ recent draft picks at wide receiver, like Xavier Worthy, might mitigate the need for a blockbuster trade.

What Do Chiefs Fans Think?
The X post has sparked a lively debate among Chiefs Kingdom. Some fans are all-in on the idea of adding Smith, arguing that Mahomes deserves more weapons to chase another Super Bowl. Others, like myself, are Wary of sacrificing a defensive star for offensive help, especially when the Chiefs’ defense was a major factor in their recent playoff runs. One fan commented, “Smith would be amazing, but McDuffie is our shutdown guy. We can’t afford to lose him.”

Final Thoughts: To Trade or Not to Trade?
As a Chiefs fan, I’m torn. DeVonta Smith could elevate our offense, but Trent McDuffie is the heart of our secondary. The Chiefs have a history of bold moves under GM Brett Veach, but this trade feels like a gamble. For now, I’d lean toward keeping McDuffie and exploring other options—like free agency or the draft—to address our receiver needs. What do you think, Chiefs Kingdom? Should we pull the trigger on this trade? Let’s hear your thoughts on X!