As the 2025 regular season approaches, several standout players are poised for new contracts, with the Kansas City Chiefs' Trey Smith in a unique position due to his franchise tag designation. July 15 marks the critical deadline for Smith to secure a multiyear deal, as franchise players cannot negotiate long-term contracts post-deadline. This rare designation for an interior lineman reflects Smith's value; only three guards have been tagged in the last decade.

The Chiefs’ general manager, Brett Veach, has expressed a strong desire to extend Smith's contract, but this will require navigating the financial implications of the franchise tag which could escalate to over $28 million by 2026. If negotiations are successful, Smith could emerge as the highest-paid offensive guard, surpassing current benchmarks set by peers like Landon Dickerson and Chris Lindstrom. Given the Chiefs' history of resetting market values for offensive linemen, securing Smith on a long-term deal seems a matter of time, potentially aligning with contracts that reflect his Pro Bowl caliber.