Led by Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, the Kansas City Chiefs have built a true modern dynasty in the NFL. While they fell short of a historic Super Bowl three-peat, they remain strong favorites to return to the big game thanks to a clear formula: keeping their core stars together.

General manager Brett Veach has played a key role in that process, drafting young talent and developing it into cornerstone players. That strategy was evident in the recent contract extensions given to defensive end George Karlaftis, who signed a four-year, $93 million deal, and guard Trey Smith, who stayed in Kansas City on a similar agreement after receiving the franchise tag.

George Karlaftis and Trey Smith become key pieces

Karlaftis is coming off a breakout season with 8 sacks, establishing himself as a constant threat on the defensive line. Smith, meanwhile, has been a pillar in protecting Mahomes. These deals not only secure elite on-field talent but also send a clear message from the organization: homegrown players will be rewarded.

Mahomes himself celebrated the extensions, praising not only their talent but also their leadership and work ethic. With these moves, the Chiefs remain highly competitive in an increasingly challenging AFC, where teams like the Bills, Ravens, Broncos, and Chargers are hot on their heels.

Trent McDuffie expected to receive a massive extension

The next major move on the horizon is the extension of starting cornerback Trent McDuffie, a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. McDuffie has been a key part of the Chiefs’ secondary, delivering consistent performances that have elevated the defense as a whole. According to ESPN’s Nate Taylor, Kansas City is hoping to finalize his extension before the season begins.

The current cornerback market plays in McDuffie’s favor. Recently, Jets star Sauce Gardner signed a record-breaking $120.4 million extension-setting a benchmark that could influence upcoming negotiations.

Clark Hunt wants to keep the core together

Chiefs owner Clark Hunt has been vocal about the team’s philosophy: “Rewarding players we draft is a priority. We believe in building through the draft.” Without naming McDuffie specifically, he made it clear that the goal is to keep the locker room leaders long-term.

With Karlaftis and Smith locked in and McDuffie next in line, the Chiefs continue to follow a strategic vision: secure young stars before the market inflates their value, avoid drawn-out negotiations, and maintain roster stability to remain contenders at the highest level in the NFL.