🛡️ Why Trey Smith Might Be the Most Important Extension Left

💪 The Heart of the Offensive Line

When Trey Smith fell to the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft due to medical concerns, Brett Veach saw an opportunity. What the Chiefs got was more than a bargain — they got a foundational piece of the franchise.

Since entering the league, Smith has started every game he’s been healthy, anchoring the right guard spot with toughness, consistency, and edge. Together with center Creed Humphrey, they’ve formed one of the most dominant young interior duos in the league.

While flashy positions often get the headlines, Trey Smith’s impact is felt in every clean pocket and every third-and-short conversion. He brings physicality that wears down defenses, but more importantly, he brings reliability — something every elite QB needs.

🧠 Leadership You Can’t Teach

Smith isn’t just a bruiser in the trenches — he’s also one of the emotional leaders of the Chiefs' locker room. In a recent interview, he said, “I lose sleep thinking about protecting Patrick.”

That’s not just lip service. That’s the mentality you build dynasties around.

As older veterans have moved on, Smith’s role as a tone-setter has only grown. He brings the same intensity to walkthroughs and film sessions that he does to game day. Coaches love him. Teammates trust him. And fans feel the pride he carries every time he puts on the red and gold.

This isn’t just about performance — it’s about identity.

🔒 Locking in Continuity

The offensive line is often the most overlooked unit in football, but continuity up front is one of the strongest predictors of sustained success. With Creed Humphrey already signed through 2028 — getting Trey Smith locked in next sends a clear message:

The Chiefs are committed to protecting Patrick Mahomes.

Extending Smith means:

• Keeping the Creed–Trey duo intact through Mahomes’ prime

• Avoiding cap inflation at a high-value position in 2026 or beyond

• Ensuring the foundation of the offense stays elite even as weapons change

The Chiefs have managed to remain dominant despite turnover at WR and RB. One reason? Mahomes is protected by elite talent in the trenches.

Securing that for the long term starts with Trey Smith.

⏳ Deadline Looming, Momentum Building

The Chiefs have until July 15 at 4 PM ET to finalize a long-term extension with Smith, who will play on the Franchise Tag if a deal is not reached. According to recent insider reports, talks have picked up and there’s optimism a deal will be done.

From a cap strategy standpoint, it makes sense to get ahead of the curve. Smith is still just 25 years old and entering his prime. His price tag will only rise as the NFL salary cap continues to climb — especially after a record $54.4 million cap increase in 2024 and 2025 combined.

Kansas City has made savvy moves extending its core early in the past. Expect them to try to do it again here.

📣 Why This Deal Matters

Trey Smith isn’t the most talked-about player on the Chiefs. He doesn’t catch touchdowns. He doesn’t lead jersey sales. But in many ways, he’s exactly the kind of player dynasties are built around:

• Tough

• Reliable

• Loyal

• Respected

You don’t find that often. And when you do, you don’t let it go.

If Veach and the Chiefs front office can get this deal done, it won’t just be a victory for the offensive line — it’ll be a victory for the future of the franchise.

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