An underrated subplot of the Kansas City Chiefs' offseason has been the looming potential contract extensions for both All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie and rising star defensive end George Karlaftis. The Chiefs have until May 1 to pick up either of their fifth-year options, though some teams around the league have already given extensions to players from the same draft class.
There's a general expectation that both of the young defensive cornerstones will be with the organization for years to come, yet the nature of their potential contract demands could complicate things.
They each play a premium position and will be exorbitantly expensive. Karlaftis, in particular, is someone to watch, as the Chiefs' ability to find impactful defensive linemen on the cheap could lead to a trade before the bill comes due.
"I wanted to come back...I love being here, I love the organization" #Chiefs DE Charles Omenihu spoke with the media today about returning to KC. The 27 year old also mentioned his return from ACL surgery and expectations for next season⬇️ pic.twitter.com/2lGIJKdnqR
— Hayley Lewis 👑 (@HayleyLewis_) April 9, 2025
Charles Omenihu Could Make George Karlaftis Expendable for Chiefs
In a conversation with Pete Sweeney of Arrowhead Pride, Charles Omenihu discussed how much he loves being part of this franchise. He's only on a one-year deal but if he performs well, it could make an unexpected Karlaftis trade more likely.
"I wanted to come back," Omenihu said. "I love being here, I love the organization." Assuming he's telling the truth, that means he'll be incentivized to get a longer extension with his play this year. He had a remarkable seven sacks in just 11 games in 2023 before tearing his ACL in the AFC Championship and while his production waned in 2024, a full offseason of work will likely help.
Karlaftis' meteoric rise is the elephant in the room. After just three years, he's already got the second-most playoff sacks ever for Kansas City. He has 24.5 in the regular season during that stretch, adding eight in the postseason during this dynastic run. Based on the market at his position, he'll command north of $100 million for an extension in all likelihood.
With Patrick Mahomes' contract getting more expensive and guys like Chris Jones on the books, it's hard to give such hefty deals to so many players. It's possible that general manager Brett Veach will have to pick between McDuffie and Karlaftis, which makes Omenihu an interesting linchpin in the conversation.
If Omenihu provides anything close to Karlaftis' production in 2025, don't be surprised if Veach explores a Tyreek Hill-style trade for the beloved 24-year-old edge rusher.