In a significant move that underscores the Kansas City Chiefs’ commitment to their roster, the team has decided to apply the franchise tag on Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This timely decision will effectively prevent Smith from entering the free agency fray, ensuring that one of their key offensive linemen remains on the team. By placing the franchise tag on Smith, the Chiefs are committed to offering him a one-year contract valued at approximately $23.4 million, a figure that positions him as the highest-paid guard in the league, surpassing Philadelphia Eagles’ Landon Dickerson, whose annual salary stands at $21 million.
The Timeline and Future Negotiations
As the clock ticks toward the franchise tag deadline on Monday at 4 p.m. ET, the Chiefs and Smith now find themselves in a race against time. While the franchise tag secures Smith’s services for at least the upcoming season, there remains a window of opportunity for both parties to negotiate a long-term contract. They have until July 15 to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. If negotiations falter, Smith will be compelled to play under the franchise tag for the 2025 season, a situation both he and the Chiefs would preferably avoid as they look to establish a lasting partnership.
Trey Smith’s Journey to Prominence
Trey Smith’s ascent in the NFL is nothing short of remarkable. Initially drafted as a sixth-round pick in 2021 from the University of Tennessee, Smith’s progress was somewhat hampered by concerns regarding a blood clot issue during his college career. Despite these worries, his immediate impact was undeniable as he took over the right guard position for Kansas City, amassing an impressive 67 starts in 68 possible regular-season games over the past four years. His durability is further underscored by his perfect record of starting in all 13 postseason games during this tenure.
Smith’s performance metrics paint a compelling picture of his value to the Chiefs’ offensive line. In 2024, he ranked 13th among NFL guards for his pass block win rate at an impressive 93.9%. Furthermore, his run-blocking prowess peaked with a career-high 75.1% win rate. Notably, he allowed just 1.5 sacks throughout the season while committing only two penalties. Such statistics not only facilitated his first Pro Bowl selection but also firmly established him as a vital cog in the Chiefs’ championship aspirations.
The Chiefs’ decision to franchise Smith reflects a cautious yet strategic approach to their offensive line. Following his notable achievements and consistent performance, the organization recognizes the crucial role players like Smith play in their pursuit of sustained success. As the Chiefs navigate these negotiations, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how this situation evolves, with the collective hope that both sides find common ground that allows Smith to continue his journey in Kansas City. As markets shift and contracts evolve, the Chiefs remain committed to building a formidable roster that balances both immediate needs and long-term stability.
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