Chiefs Use Franchise Tag to Retain Pro Bowl Guard Trey Smith

The Kansas City Chiefs secure Trey Smith with a $23.4M one-year deal, preventing him from entering free agency as they aim for a long-term contract.

The Kansas City Chiefs have placed the franchise tag on Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith, guaranteeing him $23.4 million for the 2025 season.
This move prevents Smith, considered the top offensive lineman on the market, from entering free agency on March 10.
The franchise tag provides the Chiefs additional time to negotiate a long-term contract with Smith before the mid-July deadline.
Smith's retention solidifies the Chiefs' elite interior offensive line, alongside All-Pro Joe Thuney and top center Creed Humphrey, to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
The decision reflects the Chiefs' prioritization of Smith, with General Manager Brett Veach emphasizing his importance to the team's future plans.