In a calculated effort to secure their offensive line’s future, the Kansas City Chiefs have opted to place the franchise tag on standout guard Trey Smith, according to a recent report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This decision not only prevents Smith from entering the hyper-competitive free agency landscape but also signifies the Chiefs’ recognition of his crucial role in protecting their quarterback and bolstering their running game. The franchise tag—with a value projected at approximately $23.4 million—positions Smith as the highest-paid guard in the NFL, surpassing the previous record held by Landon Dickerson of the Philadelphia Eagles.
The implementation of the franchise tag indicates the Chiefs’ commitment to Smith while simultaneously providing them with leverage in ongoing contract negotiations. Teams have until July 15 to reach a long-term extension, which is particularly important given the financial implications of the franchise tag—a one-year contract that can only be accepted as a stopgap measure. If both parties are unable to finalize a deal by the specified date, Smith will ultimately play the 2025 season under this tender, which could have ramifications for the team’s salary cap and roster planning.
Trey Smith’s ascent to becoming a critical component of the Chiefs’ offensive line is nothing short of remarkable. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Smith’s selection was clouded by health concerns, notably a history of blood clots in his lungs during his collegiate career at the University of Tennessee. However, his performance has far exceeded the expectations that come with being a late-round selection. In his four seasons with Kansas City, Smith has started an impressive 67 of 68 regular-season games and has been a reliable starter throughout 13 playoff appearances.
In 2024, Smith’s performance metrics speak volumes; he ranked 13th among guards for pass block win rate at an impressive 93.9% and sixth for run block win rate, achieving a personal best of 75.1%. Moreover, with the staggering statistic of just 1.5 sacks allowed throughout the season and only two penalties to his name, it’s clear that Smith not only excels in execution but also stands out in discipline. His efforts culminated in his first Pro Bowl selection—a nod that not only recognizes Smith’s talent but also solidifies his status among the elite in the league.
The Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Chiefs face an important chapter regarding their offensive line, with Smith at the forefront. Keeping a player of his caliber is essential for maintaining the team’s championship aspirations, particularly as they navigate competitive divisions in the league. The upcoming negotiation period will be instrumental, as securing Smith with a long-term contract will reflect the Chiefs’ commitment to fortifying their foundation as they continue to strive for football supremacy in the seasons ahead.