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Could a franchise tag be just the beginning for Trey Smith? The Kansas City Chiefs have made an important decision regarding their offensive line by planning to franchise tag their standout guard, Trey Smith. This news comes as no surprise to those following the team closely, as Smith has proven to be a crucial piece of the Chiefs' success, especially following their recent Super Bowl victories.
Franchise Tag Explained The franchise tag allows the Chiefs to retain Smith for an additional year while negotiations for a long-term contract continue. By placing the franchise tag on him, the Chiefs ensure that Smith will earn a hefty $23.4 million on a fully guaranteed one-year deal. This amount not only positions him as the highest-paid guard in NFL history but also underscores his invaluable contribution to the team's offensive line.
Trey Smith's Impressive Performance Since joining the league as a sixth-round pick in 2021, Trey Smith has established himself as one of the best interior offensive linemen in football. Over his first four seasons, Smith started an impressive 67 of 68 games, including all 13 playoff games. His performance in the 2024 season was particularly noteworthy, allowing just one sack and a mere 34 pressures against some of the league’s toughest defenses. This level of performance is a critical asset for the Chiefs, especially as they look to maintain their status as perennial contenders.
The Financial Implications While the franchise tag helps secure Smith for another year, it also raises questions about the Chiefs' overall salary cap situation. The team is navigating significant financial commitments to its offensive line, which includes other key players like Joe Thuney and Creed Humphrey. These existing contracts, coupled with the expectations of contract renewals and extensions, mean the Chiefs need to be strategic about their financial decisions moving forward.
Despite the excitement surrounding Smith’s franchise tag, the Chiefs are also aware that they may need to make some tough choices in the near future. With the NFL salary cap increasing, they will be looking for creative solutions to balance their financial commitments while retaining their star players.
Looking Ahead: Long-Term Deal Possibilities Chiefs general manager Brett Veach has expressed optimism about reaching a long-term agreement with Trey Smith, highlighting the organization’s desire to keep him in Kansas City for years to come. The franchise tag serves as a bridge while both parties work toward a mutually beneficial deal that reflects Smith's worth and contributions to the team.
The significance of retaining Smith cannot be overstated, especially considering the quality of the offensive line he anchors. With Smith, Thuney, and Humphrey working together, the Chiefs have the potential to form one of the NFL's most formidable lines, providing adequate protection for their star quarterback and opening up running lanes for their backs.
Conclusion As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for the upcoming season, the franchise tagging of Trey Smith not only secures a key player on their roster but also allows them the necessary time to negotiate a long-term deal. Football fans around the world will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what it means for the Chiefs' quest to remain a dominant force in the NFL. With Smith's talent and determination, he is poised to continue making headlines for the right reasons in the seasons to come.
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