For the second straight year, Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie has been overlooked for the Pro Bowl, sparking surprise and disappointment among fans and analysts.
The 2025 Pro Bowl rosters, revealed Thursday, included five Chiefs players, with McDuffie named as one of the eight alternates. As an alternate, McDuffie will only join the roster if a selected player drops out. Unlike a full selection, alternates do not receive the official recognition of being a Pro Bowler unless they play in the game.
McDuffie’s Stellar Season
Despite the snub, McDuffie has built a strong case for recognition:
- 59 tackles, including six for loss.
- Two interceptions and a career-high 13 passes defensed.
- Contributions in versatility: one forced fumble and one sack.
This stellar performance follows his 2023 campaign, where he earned First-Team All-Pro honors—a recognition widely considered more prestigious than a Pro Bowl nod.
AFC Cornerbacks Selected
The AFC cornerbacks named to the Pro Bowl are:
- Marlon Humphrey (Baltimore Ravens)
- Patrick Surtain II (Denver Broncos)
- Derek Stingley Jr. (Houston Texans)
- Denzel Ward (Cleveland Browns)
These players represent strong competition, yet McDuffie’s exclusion, especially given his consistent performances, has raised eyebrows.
Chiefs and McDuffie’s Perspective
As the Chiefs continue their historic pursuit of an unprecedented Super Bowl three-peat, McDuffie likely values championships and All-Pro accolades over Pro Bowl appearances. However, the snub highlights the ongoing lack of recognition for his quiet but impactful contributions to the Chiefs’ defense.
Fans and teammates alike hope McDuffie’s name will be called for the All-Pro team, further cementing his status as one of the league’s elite cornerbacks. Until then, McDuffie remains focused on the ultimate prize: another Super Bowl ring.