In a strategic move to secure their offensive line, the Kansas City Chiefs have decided to place the franchise tag on Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith. This decision was confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter and underscores the organization’s intention to keep one of its pivotal players off the free agent market. By utilizing this tag, the Chiefs are signaling their commitment to maintaining the integrity of their offensive front, which has been integral in the team’s success over recent seasons.
The implications of the franchise tag are significant; Smith is set to earn approximately $23.4 million for the 2025 season. This amount not only highlights his value to the franchise but also positions him as the highest-paid guard in the NFL, surpassing Philadelphia Eagles’ Landon Dickerson, who previously held the title with a $21 million annual salary. The Chiefs must now navigate the delicate balance of managing their salary cap while negotiating a long-term deal with Smith.
Trey Smith’s journey to stardom in the NFL began when he was drafted as a sixth-round pick in 2021 out of the University of Tennessee. The decision to select Smith later than many expected stemmed from medical concerns related to a blood clot issue in his lungs during his collegiate career. Despite these red flags, Smith has proven to be an invaluable asset for Kansas City, starting a remarkable 67 of a possible 68 regular-season games in just four seasons. His resilience and performance have made him a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive unit.
Throughout his career, Smith has shown remarkable durability, having never missed a start in 13 playoff contests. This consistency is commendable and speaks to his conditioning and commitment, making him a crucial player as the Chiefs contend for championships.
Statistically, Smith’s performance has only improved with each season. In 2024, he ranked 13th among guards in pass block win rate, achieving a 93.9% success rate. Furthermore, his talents were evident in the run game, where he achieved a career-high 75.1% run block win rate. Notably, he allowed only 1.5 sacks throughout the season and committed just two penalties, showcasing his efficiency and skill on the field.
His outstanding performances have not gone unnoticed; in addition to his statistical achievements, Smith received his first Pro Bowl selection, marking a significant milestone in his career. Moreover, his consistent performance has placed him among the elite guards in the league, consistently ranking in the top four for pass rush win rates since entering the league.
With the Chiefs and Smith having until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract, the next few months will be critical for both parties. A successful agreement would solidify Smith’s future with the Chiefs, allowing him to continue contributing to one of the league’s most explosive offenses. As Kansas City looks to compete for more titles, retaining a player of Smith’s caliber is essential. For now, the Chiefs can breathe a little easier knowing that one of their star offensive linemen will be around for at least one more season, as they strive for continued excellence in the NFL.
The franchise tag on Trey Smith represents not just a financial decision, but a broader commitment to maintaining the competitive edge that has characterized the Kansas City Chiefs in recent seasons.
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