In a significant move for both the Kansas City Chiefs and their budding star, Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith, the team has decided to employ the franchise tag on him ahead of the looming free agency period. This decision ensures that Smith remains with the Chiefs for at least another year, effectively negating any chance for him to enter the unpredictable waters of free agency. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the action comes with a substantial financial implication, as it requires the Chiefs to offer Smith around $23.4 million for the upcoming season—a sum that not only makes him one of the highest-paid guards in professional football but also reflects his critical position within the team.
The choice to franchise Smith highlights the Chiefs’ valuation of his contributions on the field. Comparatively, the highest-paid guard in the NFL is currently Landon Dickerson from the Philadelphia Eagles, who earns $21 million annually. With Smith’s franchise tag, he surpasses Dickerson in terms of earnings, showcasing how vital he has become to the Chiefs’ offensive line. This strategic financial maneuver signifies a long-term commitment from Kansas City, while also putting pressure on both parties to negotiate a longer contract before the July 15 deadline. If an agreement isn’t reached by then, Smith will continue to play on the tender, which may not only limit his earnings potential in the long run but also foster uncertainty about his future with the organization.
Trey Smith’s journey to the NFL is a tale of resilience and redemption. Initially selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Smith’s path was clouded by medical concerns stemming from a blood-clot issue during his college career at Tennessee. Despite these challenges, the Chiefs saw past the stigma and immediately integrated him into their lineup. Over the past four seasons, Smith has established himself as a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive strategy, starting 67 out of 68 regular-season games. His consistent presence on the field was pivotal in the team’s success, as he has also maintained an impressive streak of starting every postseason game during this span.
In his recent performance during the 2024 season, Smith’s statistics speak volumes about his capabilities as an elite offensive guard. Ranking 13th among peers in pass block win rate at an impressive 93.9%, and sixth in run block win rate at a career-high 75.1%, his statistics resonate strongly with his Pro Bowl selection. Additionally, allowing only 1.5 sacks and committing merely two penalties throughout the season underscores his efficiency and discipline on the field. His previous performances, especially finishing in the top four for pass rush win rate over the past three seasons, validate not only his skills but also solidify his status as a key player for the Chiefs.
As the Chiefs navigate the complexities of the salary cap and roster management, securing Trey Smith under the franchise tag is a strategic victory. The coming months will be crucial as both Smith and the Chiefs work towards a long-term deal that reflects his contributions and potential future impact. For fans and analysts alike, one thing is clear: Trey Smith is more than just a player—he is a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ aspirations for further success on the field.
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