In a significant move ahead of the NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs have decided to utilize the franchise tag on Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith. This decision, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, serves to retain Smith as a pivotal member of the Chiefs’ roster while simultaneously keeping him off the free agency market. Under this franchise designation, Smith will be offered a one-year contract estimated at around $23.4 million, effectively positioning him as the highest-paid guard in the league, surpassing the previous record held by Philadelphia Eagles’ Landon Dickerson, who earns $21 million annually.
The timing of this franchise tag is critical; teams must navigate the financial implications wisely, especially with the Monday 4 p.m. ET deadline rapidly approaching. For Smith and the Chiefs, July 15 is a crucial date as it offers both parties a window of opportunity to negotiate a long-term contract. Should an agreement fail to materialize by that deadline, Smith will play the entire 2025 season based on the franchise tag, which could impact both his future earnings potential and the team’s salary cap strategy.
Trey Smith’s rise from a sixth-round draft pick in 2021 to a Pro Bowl guard is nothing short of remarkable. Coming out of the University of Tennessee, Smith’s draft stock was affected by past health concerns, specifically a blood-clot issue that raised red flags for many teams. Nevertheless, the Chiefs recognized his immense talent and potential, immediately integrating him into their starting lineup. Since then, Smith has demonstrated a consistent level of performance, starting 67 out of 68 regular-season games and maintaining an unblemished starting record in 13 postseason games.
Statistically, Smith has established himself as one of the premier offensive linemen in the NFL. In the 2024 season, he was ranked 13th in the league for pass block win rate, boasting an impressive 93.9%. Additionally, he placed sixth in run block win rate, achieving a career-high of 75.1%. His efficiency and reliability in pass protection is further underscored by allowing only 1.5 sacks throughout the season, coupled with just two penalties, a testament to his disciplined play style. These numbers played a crucial role in earning him his first Pro Bowl selection, solidifying his place as a vital asset to the Chiefs’ offensive line.
Beyond individual statistics, retaining Smith through the franchise tag highlights the Chiefs’ commitment to maintaining a formidable offensive line capable of protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes and paving the way for their running game. This strategic decision reflects the team’s long-term vision, particularly as they prepare for future seasons. As negotiations progress, the Chiefs must address the broader implications for team salary cap management and player retention while ensuring that they continue to support their championship aspirations. With Smith at the forefront, the Chiefs not only secure a key player but also send a clear message about their intent to build a sustained competitive edge within the league.
