The Kansas City Chiefs have officially placed a franchise tag on right guard Trey Smith, ensuring he won’t hit the open market. This decision, announced on March 1, 2025, secures Smith for the upcoming season with a salary of $23.402 million if he stays for the full year. But what does this mean for the Chiefs and Smith’s future?
- Chiefs franchise tag right guard Trey Smith
- Non-exclusive tag valued at $23.402 million
- Other teams can negotiate with Smith
- Chiefs can match offers or receive compensation
- Long-term deal desired before July 15 deadline
- Previous trade of Sneed indicates possible outcomes
What Does the Franchise Tag Mean for Trey Smith and the Chiefs?
Why would a team place a franchise tag on a player? The Chiefs are making a strategic move to keep Trey Smith, a key player on their offensive line. This tag gives them time to negotiate a long-term deal while protecting their investment. However, it also opens the door for other teams to make offers. Could Smith end up elsewhere?
Understanding the Franchise Tag and Its Implications
The franchise tag is a powerful tool in the NFL, allowing teams to retain key players. For Trey Smith, this means he will earn a significant salary while the Chiefs decide on a long-term contract. Here are some key points:
- The tag is non-exclusive, allowing other teams to negotiate.
- If another team signs Smith, the Chiefs can match the offer or receive two first-round picks.
- The Chiefs have until July 15 to finalize a long-term deal with Smith.
- This strategy is similar to last year’s tagging of L’Jarius Sneed before a trade.
Potential Outcomes for Trey Smith and the Chiefs
The Chiefs’ decision to tag Smith opens several possibilities. While they aim for a long-term deal, the non-exclusive nature of the tag means other teams can make a play for him. If they choose to let him go, they could gain valuable draft picks. This situation keeps fans on the edge of their seats, wondering what the future holds for their team.
Historical Context: Previous Franchise Tag Decisions
Looking back, the Chiefs have used the franchise tag strategically. Last year, they tagged cornerback L’Jarius Sneed before trading him to the Titans. This highlights that while tagging a player provides security, it doesn’t guarantee they will remain with the team. How will the Chiefs navigate this situation with Smith?
In conclusion, the franchise tag on Trey Smith is a significant move for the Chiefs. It protects their investment while allowing flexibility for negotiations. Fans will be watching closely to see if Smith will stay in Kansas City or explore new opportunities.
