Chiefs quietly strike record-breaking $94M deal with Patrick Mahomes' protector

The Kansas City Chiefs' record-breaking extension for right guard Trey Smith significantly strengthens their offensive line, making them a strong candidate for a deep playoff run. This move could influence betting odds, suggesting that the Chiefs will likely perform better in the upcoming season.

The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly quietly negotiated a record-breaking extension with right guard Trey Smith, signing him to an astonishing four-year, $94 million contract — $70 million of it guaranteed. That deal, finalized shortly before today’s franchise-tag deadline, per multiple reports, makes Smith the highest-paid guard in NFL history. Patrick Mahomes, who recently said he's strongly against the NFL's proposed 18-game season, will enjoy fortified protection, as Smith had been operating under a one-year tag worth $23.4 million, already the top single-season salary at the position.

Declared a Pro Bowler in 2024 and a vital anchor since his rookie season, Smith’s consistency — missing only one game across four seasons — cemented his leverage. From the Chiefs’ standpoint, the extension secures their interior line long-term while replacing an expensive franchise tag with manageable cap hits. For Smith and his agents, the fully guaranteed money offers financial certainty. This landmark pact reshapes the guard market and underscores Kansas City’s commitment to protecting their superstar quarterback, who was called 'fat and an embarrassment' in a recent rant by Kansas City radio host.

The extension elevates Smith’s market position above all other guards. Previously, Robert Hunt held the record for guaranteed money at $63 million, closely followed by Chris Lindstrom’s $62.7 million. Smith’s $70 million in guarantees sets a new benchmark and reshapes the financial landscape at the interior line position. More than a financial statement, this deal delivers long-term protection for Mahomes. Following Joe Thuney’s departure earlier this offseason via trade, retaining Smith became essential for maintaining continuity and cohesion on the offensive front.

Chiefs GM Brett Veach, recognizing Smith’s value, indicated that the team wanted to “lock him up." Strategically, the extension also benefits Kansas City’s salary cap. Converting Smith’s tag into a multi-year deal allows the Chiefs to distribute the cap hit more effectively, freeing up space to bolster other areas of the roster. With roughly $11 million in cap space, the timing was ideal — sign now to avoid a second franchise tag that would have totaled over $28 million in 2026.

The Chiefs' history of rewarding interior linemen adds context to this move. In recent seasons, Kansas City set notable benchmarks with center Creed Humphrey’s four-year, $72 million deal and tackle Jawaan Taylor’s four-year, $80 million agreement. Now, they’ve done it again with Smith, reaffirming their commitment to core offensive assets. For Smith, the deal provides financial security and cements his role at the center of one of the NFL’s most formidable offenses. At only 26 years old, he’s entering the prime of his career, with two Super Bowl rings and one Pro Bowl selection already under his belt.

From the team’s perspective, the extension is a calculated investment in protecting Mahomes. It averts the risk and disruption of franchise-tag negotiations mid-season, and sends a clear message: the Chiefs prioritize stability and performance on the line.

Chiefs, Trey Smith agree to 4-year, $94M deal with $70M guaranteed, making him the highest-paid guard in NFL history ahead of franchise tag deadline

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