In a pivotal move for their offensive line, the Kansas City Chiefs have decided to franchise tag Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith. This strategic decision, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, ensures that Smith will remain with the team and not enter the free agent market. By placing the franchise tag on Smith, the Chiefs are prepared to extend a one-year contract worth approximately $23.4 million, which positions him as the highest-paid guard in the league, surpassing Philadelphia Eagles’ Landon Dickerson’s $21 million average salary.
This action signals the organization’s recognition of Smith’s value, both to their current roster and potential future successes. The franchise tag serves as a protective measure, granting the Chiefs time to negotiate a long-term contract. Teams have until July 15 to finalize such agreements, and if a deal is not struck by then, Smith will play under his franchise designation for the upcoming season.
Trey Smith’s journey to becoming a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive front is impressive. After being selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft from the University of Tennessee, Smith quickly proved his worth. Despite concerns over a serious health issue—a blood clot found in his lungs during his college career—Smith’s transition into the professional level was nothing short of remarkable.
Over the last four seasons, he has started 67 out of 68 possible regular-season games and has maintained an unblemished start record through 13 postseason appearances. His consistent and reliable performance has not gone unnoticed; in the 2024 season, Smith achieved a commendable 13th place among guards in pass block win rate, achieving a standout career-high in run block win rate at 75.1%.
One cannot overlook the statistical achievements Smith has garnered over his brief yet impactful career. With only 1.5 sacks allowed, coupled with a minimal two penalties throughout the season, his performance reflects both his technical skill and understanding of the game. His prose in both pass rush win rate—finishing in the top four for three consecutive seasons—highlights his elite status within the franchise and the league at large.
Smith’s recent Pro Bowl selection is a testament to his growth and necessary contribution to the Chiefs’ offensive strategies. With a powerful combination of skill and athleticism, he shapes the dynamic of the line, ensuring the protection of their quarterback and facilitating successful running plays.
As the Chiefs look toward the future, securing Trey Smith with a franchise tag is more than just a financial maneuver; it is a statement of intent. The Chiefs acknowledge Smith’s pivotal role in their offensive scheme and building a championship-caliber team. As they continue to refine their roster, the eventual outcome of contract negotiations will be closely observed, with the hope that both parties can reach an agreement that reflects Smith’s on-field prowess and importance to the franchise.
The deadline for achieving this long-term goal is pressing, and the upcoming months will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory not only for Smith but for the entire Chiefs organization as they aim for sustained success in the highly competitive NFL landscape.
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