Chiefs Secure Trey Smith with Historic 94M Extension, Solidifying NFLs Top-Paid Guard
On July 15, 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs finalized a monumental four-year, $94 million contract extension with star right guard Trey Smith, including $70 million guaranteed.
This deal, inked just before the NFL’s franchise tag deadline, which makes Smith the highest-paid guard in league history, surpassing Philadelphia’s Landon Dickerson’s $84 million benchmark. The extension reflects Kansas City’s dedication to protecting Patrick Mahomes and sustaining their AFC dominance.
Betting on the Chiefs’ Future
With Smith locked in, the Chiefs remain a fan favorite for another Super Bowl run, and spectators are taking notice. His protection bolsters Mahomes’ ability to dissect defenses, making Kansas City a hot pick in betting markets. For fans who have been analysing outcomes like the Chiefs’ Week 1 clash with the Chargers in São Paulo, online platforms that offer bystanders the option of placing bets without KYC checks provide a hassle-free experience with a streamlined process, allowing fans to bet on game results or player props like Mahomes’ passing yards, without extensive verification. Smith’s presence, contributing to Kansas City’s third-ranked 4.8% pressure rate, gives fans confidence in the Chiefs’ offensive stability.
From Sixth-Round Gem to Elite Lineman
Trey Smith, selected 226th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Tennessee, has transformed from a late-round pick into a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line. Health concerns from college, including blood clots, caused his draft stock to slip, but Kansas City saw untapped potential. Smith has since started all 67 games he’s played, missing just one, and earned a 2024 Pro Bowl nod. His 2024 season was exceptional, with a 78.8 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade and just 1.5 sacks allowed across 17 starts. This durability helped the Chiefs rank top 10 in pass protection efficiency, ensuring Mahomes had time to work his magic.
Beyond the numbers, Smith’s leadership shines. Patrick Mahomes praised him on FanDuel TV’s Up and Adams as “a rock we rely on,” while GM Brett Veach called him a priority after trading All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to the Bears this offseason. Paired with center Creed Humphrey, Smith forms part of the NFL’s priciest guard-center tandem, with a combined $41.5 million annual salary, per Spotrac.
The Deal: A Market-Resetting Commitment
Smith’s four-year, $94 million extension, averaging $23.5 million annually, resets the guard market, topping Dickerson’s $21 million yearly average. The $70 million in guarantees highlights Kansas City’s faith in Smith’s consistency, as he’s allowed just 5.5 career sacks, a standout stat for a guard battling elite defensive tackles. The deal’s structure leverages the NFL’s 2025 salary cap increase to $279.2 million, allowing the Chiefs to avoid the $23.4 million franchise tag and spread the cap hit for roster flexibility.
This contract also marks Smith as one of the most successful sixth-round picks ever, the contract value for that draft slot trailing only Tom Brady, who became the first player in league history by reaching 600 touchdowns. Smith shows his work ethic and the Chiefs’ scouting prowess, ensuring stability as younger players like rookie Josh Simmons compete for the left guard role.
Building a Dynasty Around Smith
Smith’s extension is a cornerstone for Kansas City’s championship aspirations post their Super Bowl LIX loss to the Eagles. Alongside Humphrey, he anchors an interior line ranked the NFL’s best in ESPN’s 2025 coach and scout survey. His mentorship of young talents like Simmons, whom he praised for his toughness, ensures continuity. Smith’s commitment, shown by attending minicamp despite skipping OTAs, contrasts with holdouts like Chris Jones’ in 2023.
Conclusion
Trey Smith’s $94 million extension is a defining moment for the Chiefs, securing the NFL’s highest-paid guard and a linchpin for their offense. His journey from a sixth-round steal to a Pro Bowl star showcases his elite skill. For fans and bettors, this deal signals Kansas City’s intent to reclaim the Super Bowl, with Smith paving the way for Mahomes’ brilliance. As training camp looms, the Chiefs’ offensive line looks poised to dominate, blending veteran grit with youthful promise.