Former Tennessee Vol Trey Smith could be in position to set NFL history in a very enviable way

Trey Smith: From Sixth-Round Steal to NFL Superstar

Former Tennessee Volunteers standout Trey Smith has rapidly ascended the ranks in the NFL, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier offensive linemen. Selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, Smith has quickly become a cornerstone of the team’s offensive line, tasked with safeguarding one of the league’s most valuable assets, quarterback Patrick Mahomes. His performance on the field has earned him two consecutive Super Bowl rings, solidifying his reputation as a key player in the Chiefs’ success.

However, Smith’s achievements extend beyond championship rings. As he approaches free agency at the end of this season, the 24-year-old is poised to secure a contract that could set new benchmarks for offensive guards in the NFL. Here’s a detailed look at his journey, his potential payday, and what the future may hold.

Smith’s Rise to Prominence

Trey Smith’s journey to the NFL was anything but conventional. Despite being one of the most talented offensive linemen in college football during his tenure at Tennessee, health concerns caused his draft stock to plummet. Diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs, Smith missed significant time during his collegiate career, leaving NFL teams wary of his long-term durability. As a result, he fell to the sixth round, where the Chiefs capitalized on the opportunity to draft a player of his caliber.

Fast forward to today, and Smith has exceeded all expectations. He has developed into a dominant force on the offensive line, consistently providing elite protection for Mahomes and playing a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ dynamic offense. His performance has earned him recognition as one of the league’s top guards and a key free-agent target this offseason.

Free Agency and Record-Breaking Potential

Smith is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2025, and the buzz around his upcoming contract is substantial. Both Pro Football Focus (PFF) and Bleacher Report have ranked him as the second-best player set to hit free agency and the top offensive lineman on the market. At just 25 years old, Smith’s combination of youth, talent, and experience makes him one of the most coveted players in this free-agency class.

What Experts Are Saying

PFF highlighted Smith’s consistent performance and potential for a massive payday:

“Smith’s 80.4 PFF overall grade currently ranks 10th among all guards this season, and he will still be only 25 years old when free agency opens. That’s a good combination for a big payday, given that multiple players at the position signed deals at or exceeding $20 million per year in 2024.”

While his health concerns were a factor in his draft slide, they have not hindered his professional career. Smith has played four consecutive seasons without any significant health setbacks, proving his durability and reliability. This should alleviate concerns for teams vying for his services and could drive up his market value significantly.

The Financial Landscape

Trey Smith’s upcoming contract is expected to redefine the market for offensive guards. The current benchmark was set by Philadelphia Eagles guard Landon Dickerson, who signed a four-year, $84 million extension, averaging $21 million per year. Around the same time, Robert Hunt inked a five-year, $100 million deal with the Carolina Panthers.

Smith’s performance and age position him to surpass these deals. Analysts predict that his next contract could exceed $100 million in total value, with an annual average value (AAV) north of $21 million. Such a deal would make Smith the highest-paid guard in NFL history, a fitting accolade for a player of his caliber.

Kansas City’s Cap Space Challenge

Retaining Smith will be a significant challenge for the Chiefs. According to OverTheCap.com, Kansas City currently has the ninth-lowest available cap space in the league, with $19.9 million in total space and $4.6 million in effective space. This financial constraint could make it difficult for the Chiefs to offer Smith the kind of record-setting deal he’s likely to command.

On the other hand, teams like the Chicago Bears and New England Patriots are in a much stronger financial position. Both franchises rank in the top five for available cap space heading into the 2025 season, giving them the flexibility to offer Smith a lucrative deal. These teams, along with others, will likely be at the forefront of the bidding war for the star guard’s services.

Smith’s Value Beyond the Numbers

While Smith’s statistics and accolades are impressive, his value transcends what can be measured on paper. He brings leadership, resilience, and a relentless work ethic to the field. These qualities have not only endeared him to his teammates and coaches but also made him a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive success.

Moreover, Smith’s story of overcoming adversity has inspired many. His health struggles during college could have derailed his career, but his determination and perseverance have allowed him to achieve greatness. This narrative, combined with his elite performance, makes him a player that any franchise would be proud to have.

The Road Ahead

As free agency approaches, the anticipation surrounding Trey Smith’s future continues to grow. The frenzy will officially begin in March when teams can start negotiating with free agents. Given his age, skill set, and track record, Smith is expected to be one of the most sought-after players on the market.

Possible Destinations

• Kansas City Chiefs: While re-signing Smith would be ideal for the Chiefs, their limited cap space presents a significant hurdle. If they can find creative ways to clear space, they might make a strong push to retain him.
• Chicago Bears: With ample cap space and a need to bolster their offensive line, the Bears are a likely contender for Smith’s services.
• New England Patriots: Known for valuing strong offensive line play, the Patriots could emerge as serious bidders, given their favorable cap situation.
• Others: Teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and the New York Jets, both of whom are looking to strengthen their protection for young quarterbacks, could also enter the fray.

Conclusion

Trey Smith’s rise from a sixth-round pick to one of the NFL’s elite guards is a testament to his talent, determination, and resilience. As he enters free agency, his story continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. Whether he remains in Kansas City or joins a new team, one thing is certain: Trey Smith’s best days are still ahead of him.

With the potential to sign a record-breaking contract, Smith is on the brink of solidifying his place not only as one of the highest-paid players at his position but also as a symbol of perseverance and excellence in professional football. March will mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his already illustrious career.