In the world of professional football, the franchise tag is a significant tool for teams to retain their top players while navigating the complexities of free agency. Recently, the Kansas City Chiefs made a pivotal decision regarding their starting right guard, Trey Smith, by utilizing the franchise tag. This move not only secures Smith’s place on the roster for the upcoming season but also signals the team’s commitment to retaining key talent as they strive for continued success in the competitive NFL landscape.
The Chiefs have indicated that they will offer Smith a one-year contract valued at approximately $23.4 million, which positions him as the highest-paid guard in the league. This decision comes at an opportune time, as the franchise tag deadline looms. Comparatively, the previous highest salary for a guard was held by Landon Dickerson of the Philadelphia Eagles, who earns $21 million annually. By franchising Smith, the Chiefs not only avoid the risk of losing him to free agency but also leverage his proven performance on the field to justify this financial commitment.
At just 25 years old, Trey Smith has already carved out a remarkable career trajectory since being drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Originally a high-profile prospect from the University of Tennessee, concerns over a blood-clot issue precipitated his drop in draft stock. Nonetheless, Smith quickly proved his worth by becoming a reliable starter, missing only a single game over four seasons, including the postseason. His durability and consistent performance have made him an essential part of the Chiefs’ offensive line.
In terms of statistical performance, Smith impressed in 2024, ranking 13th among guards in pass block win rate at an impressive 93.9% and sixth in run block win rate, achieving a career-high of 75.1%. His ability to minimize negative outcomes is evident, having surrendered only 1.5 sacks during the season and incurring merely two penalties. This level of performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, affirming his status among the league’s elite offensive linemen.
While the franchise tag provides short-term security, both Smith and the Chiefs are under pressure to negotiate a long-term contract before July 15. If negotiations stall and no agreement is reached, Smith will play the 2025 season under the franchise tender, potentially altering the team’s financial dynamics and its approach to roster construction in subsequent years.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ decision to franchise Trey Smith reflects both a recognition of his talent and a broader strategy to maintain a competitive edge. As the negotiation window progresses, fans of the Chiefs and Smith alike will be watching closely to see if an agreement can be struck that would solidify Smith’s long-term future with the organization. This crucial decision underscores the importance of effective management in professional sports, balancing financial commitments with the need for exceptional on-field performance.