The Kansas City Chiefs are taking decisive steps to secure the future of their offensive line by planning to franchise tag right guard Trey Smith, a move that signals their commitment to both immediate stability and long-term negotiations. Smith, who earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2024, showcased outstanding performance by leading the league in pass-blocking snaps without allowing a sack.

This franchise tag will lock Smith into a one-year deal worth $23.4 million, fully guaranteed, allowing the Chiefs to focus on fortifying their offensive line. General manager Brett Veach has already invested significantly in the line, making All-Pro center Creed Humphrey the highest-paid player at his position and signing right tackle Jawaan Taylor to a lucrative contract. As such, ensuring Smith’s continued presence is pivotal for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who faced a career-high in sacks last season.

While the interior line now has Smith, Humphrey, and Joe Thuney secured, the Chiefs still need to address the tackle positions to improve Mahomes' protection. The decision to tag Smith could also influence other roster decisions, particularly regarding Jawaan Taylor, who has been the most penalized player in the league. The Chiefs face a tough offseason ahead, but these strategic moves look to provide a solid foundation for continued success.

The Kansas City Chiefs are poised to solidify their offensive line, a crucial element in their bid for sustained success following last season's Super Bowl. With Joe Thuney, Creed Humphrey, and Jawaan Taylor all among the highest-paid at their positions, the Chiefs are aiming to keep Trey Smith as well, whose rookie deal is expiring. General Manager Brett Veach expressed optimism about retaining Smith, projecting his annual salary could reach upwards of $19.7 million, making him one of the highest-paid guards in the NFL.

Smith's improving performance, highlighted by his recent Pro Bowl selection, means he could eclipse Landon Dickerson's $21 million average, depending on market conditions. However, retaining Smith might necessitate parting ways with either Thuney or Taylor, raising questions about the Chiefs' strategy given their recent Super Bowl defeat. The team is weighing its options carefully as it navigates the financial landscape to keep its core intact, especially with Smith entering his prime.

In a historic matchup at Super Bowl LIX, cousins Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and Jawaan Taylor will compete against each other, marking a significant family reunion. Gardner-Johnson, a defensive back for the Philadelphia Eagles, returns to the Eagles after a stint with the Detroit Lions, while Taylor, an offensive lineman for the Kansas City Chiefs, is focused on helping his team achieve a three-peat. Both players have deep roots in Central Florida, having played together during their high school and college years at the University of Florida.

This “Cousins Super Bowl” has drawn excitement from family members, with some traveling to New Orleans to support both players. Their mothers express pride in their sons’ achievements, highlighting the family dynamics at play. Taylor’s efforts to protect star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Gardner-Johnson’s knack for making game-changing plays enhance the competitive spirit of this unique familial showdown. Regardless of the outcome, both players represent their Florida roots on the grandest NFL stage, showcasing their talent and dedication to the game.

The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for a critical divisional playoff matchup against the Houston Texans, with all active roster members participating in practice. Notably, cornerback Jaylen Watson returned to practice as a full participant, a significant milestone in his recovery from a fractured fibula sustained in Week 7 against the San Francisco 49ers. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo emphasized the importance of Watson's practice sessions, noting that he must adjust to the playoff pace of the game.

Star cornerback Trent McDuffie praised Watson's energy and progress during recovery, highlighting his positive impact on the team's dynamic. Sports analyst Joshua Brisco noted that if Watson can return at even 75% of his previous performance level, he could elevate the Chiefs' defense significantly. The Chiefs also received good news regarding other key players, including Chris Jones and Isiah Pacheco, who have been practicing without restrictions. Meanwhile, the status of wideout Mecole Hardman, recovering from a knee injury, will remain under scrutiny as the game approaches.