The Kansas City Chiefs made Trey Smith the NFL's highest-paid guard on July 16, 2025. See how the historic $94M deal impacts their 2024 season title hopes.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Kansas City Chiefs sent a clear message to the rest of the league on Wednesday: the quest for another Lombardi Trophy begins in the trenches. In a blockbuster move, the team signed right guard Trey Smith to a historic four-year, $94 million extension, cementing him as the highest-paid guard in NFL history and securing a foundational piece of their dominant offensive line for the foreseeable future.
$94 million, with $70 million guaranteed, making Trey Smith the highest-paid guard in NFL history.
Forget the franchise tag. General Manager Brett Veach worked his magic once again, locking down the man they call 'The Mauler' with a deal that reflects his elite status. The four-year, $94 million contract, which includes a staggering $70 million in guarantees, not only rewards Smith for his punishing play but also provides the Chiefs with crucial financial flexibility. The extension cleverly lowers Smith's 2025 cap hit to just $14.25 million, boosting the team's available cap space to over $20 million. That's a war chest Veach can use to address other needs as the season approaches. This move is classic Chiefs: identify a core, homegrown talent and pay what it takes to keep him protecting the franchise quarterback.
While the Chiefs were solidifying the line, they were also making adjustments to their receiving corps. The team waived wide receiver Justyn Ross, granting the release he had requested a week prior. Ross, a fan favorite for his comeback story from Clemson, struggled to find a consistent role, tallying just 6 catches over two seasons amidst injuries and an off-field suspension. His departure, however, coincides with fantastic news. Rashee Rice, who is recovering from a knee issue, is expected to be fully ready for the start of training camp. Getting a healthy Rice back is a massive boost for the offense, restoring a key playmaker and setting the stage for a highly competitive receiver room.
The good news on the injury front doesn't stop with Rice. Rookie offensive tackle Josh Simmons (knee) is also expected to be a full participant when camp opens, adding much-needed depth to the newly fortified offensive line. The focus now shifts fully to the upcoming battles at Missouri Western State University. On the defensive side, the competition will be particularly fierce in the secondary, where the Chiefs are carrying a whopping 19 defensive backs. Coach Spagnuolo will have his work cut out for him evaluating a deep and talented group, ensuring that only the best will make the final 53-man roster.
With Trey Smith's long-term future secured, key offensive weapons returning to health, and roster spots up for grabs across the board, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated training camps in recent memory. The front office has made its power moves. Now, it's time for the players to battle it out on the field as the journey for another Super Bowl title officially begins.
