In an assertive step to secure their roster’s integrity, the Kansas City Chiefs have decided to employ the franchise tag on guard Trey Smith. This decision, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, comes with significant implications for both Smith and the team. By tagging Smith, the Chiefs are effectively removing him from the upcoming free agent market, allowing them to maintain one of their strongest offensive linemen without risking his departure to another franchise.
Utilizing the franchise tag comes with a hefty financial commitment. For the current season, this means that the Chiefs are bound to offer Smith a one-year contract valued at approximately $23.4 million. This substantial sum positions Smith as the highest-paid guard in the league, surpassing Philadelphia Eagles’ Landon Dickerson, who previously held that title with a $21 million annual salary. The Chiefs’ readiness to invest this amount underscores the high regard in which they hold Smith’s talents and contributions to the team.
While the franchise tag secures Smith for the upcoming season, it also sets a clock ticking on the potential for a long-term deal. Both the Chiefs and Smith have until July 15 to negotiate a more permanent agreement. If the two parties fail to come to terms by that date, Smith will be obliged to play the 2025 season under the franchise tender—a scenario that might not benefit either side in the long run.
Trey Smith’s journey to becoming a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line is a testament to perseverance and resilience. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft after concerns over a blood clot issue during his college career at Tennessee, Smith has defied expectations. From day one, he stepped into a starting role and has yet to look back, participating in all but one regular-season game since his arrival.
As a testament to his skill and work ethic, Smith’s 2024 season statistics speak volumes. He ranked 13th in pass block win rate at an impressive 93.9% and excelled in run blocking with a career-high success rate of 75.1%. Notably, he allowed just 1.5 sacks throughout the season, complementing his stellar performance with only two penalties. These impressive metrics earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, a recognition that validates his significant impact on the field.
With a strong foundation established in his first few seasons and the franchise tag solidifying his place in Kansas City, Trey Smith’s future appears promising. Should the Chiefs and Smith ultimately agree on a long-term deal, it could signal a continued era of success for both the player and the franchise. As the deadline for negotiations approaches, fans and analysts will undoubtedly keep a close watch on how this situation unfolds, eager to see how the Chiefs continue to build their roster around emerging talents like Smith.
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