Trey Smith defies odds with multi-year record-setting extension from Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs have secured starting right guard Trey Smith for the long term, agreeing to a four-year contract extension that will keep him with the team through the 2028 season.

This deal reportedly sets a new market high for guards, worth up to $94 million, including $70 million in guaranteed money. The agreement comes after the Chiefs placed their franchise tag on Smith following higher-than-expected 2025 salary cap figures, with negotiations progressing positively thereafter.

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach publicly congratulated Smith, stating, "Trey embodies everything we look for in a player – toughness, intelligence, and a relentless work ethic. He's an elite guard in this league, and we're excited to have him locked in long-term." Smith's leadership and effectiveness are considered vital, especially after the departure of Joe Thuney.

Smith, a highly-touted five-star recruit from Tennessee, excelled early at the University of Tennessee, earning Freshman All-American honors in 2017. However, his career faced a major setback in 2018 when he was diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs, causing him to miss the rest of that season. He courageously returned in 2019, earning first-team All-SEC honors in both 2019 and 2020.

Despite his college success, health concerns caused him to fall in the 2021 NFL Draft, with the Chiefs selecting him in the sixth round. Smith immediately became a starter and proved to be a major steal, holding down the right guard position reliably for four seasons. He has emerged as one of the league's best young guards, culminating in a Pro Bowl performance in 2024.

The Chiefs view this contract not only as a reward for his elite performance but also as an investment, expressing confidence that his best years are still ahead, marking a significant achievement given the obstacles he overcame early in his career.