In February, the Kansas City Chiefs placed a $23.4 million franchise tag on Trey Smith, securing one of their key offensive guards for the near future. On Tuesday, Smith and the Chiefs agreed on a four-year contract extension worth $94 million, with $70 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $23.5 million, making him the highest-paid guard in the NFL. Last season, Smith ranked 10th in run-blocking (80.8) and 32nd in pass-blocking (70.7), earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He has started nearly every game in his four-year career with the Chiefs, missing only one game and playing in two Super Bowls (2022 and 2023).
Smith’s new deal comes as the Chiefs continue to bolster their offensive line, trading away two-time All-Pro Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears and signing offensive tackle Jaylon Moore for $30 million over two years. They also drafted Ohio offensive tackle Josh Simmons with their 32nd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite losing to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, the Chiefs are clearly investing in strengthening their line to maintain their competitive edge.
Fan Take: This contract extension signals the Chiefs’ commitment to protecting their star quarterback by locking down key offensive line talent. It’s an important move that could influence how the NFL values elite guards and shapes future team-building strategies around offensive line dominance.
