Trey Smith Agrees to Restructure Contract, Freeing Up Cap Space for Chiefs’ Future Moves

Kansas City, MO – In a strategic move that signals the Kansas City Chiefs’ intent to remain competitive in the 2025 season and beyond, right guard Trey Smith has agreed to restructure his contract, creating valuable salary cap space for the team. The announcement, confirmed late Wednesday, June 11, 2025, comes as the Chiefs navigate a tight financial landscape following the franchise tag placed on Smith earlier this year. This restructuring provides general manager Brett Veach with the flexibility to pursue additional roster enhancements as the team prepares to defend its Super Bowl title.

Smith, a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line since being drafted in the sixth round in 2021, had been secured with a one-year, $23.4 million franchise tag in March. The tag, which guaranteed his salary for the 2025 season, initially pushed the Chiefs over the salary cap by approximately $17 million. However, with the NFL’s 2025 salary cap set at $279.2 million, Veach has once again showcased his financial acumen by restructuring Smith’s deal. While exact figures remain undisclosed, sources indicate the move could reduce Smith’s cap hit to around $7 million for the upcoming season, freeing up a significant portion of the $23.4 million previously allocated.

The restructuring aligns with the Chiefs’ history of creatively managing their cap space. Earlier this year, the team restructured the contracts of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones, unlocking nearly $50 million in cap room. This latest adjustment with Smith builds on that momentum, providing Veach with approximately $11 million in additional cap space, according to estimates. The move is seen as a proactive step to address potential needs, particularly at positions like left tackle and wide receiver, where depth could bolster the team’s championship aspirations.

Smith’s willingness to restructure reflects his commitment to the Chiefs’ long-term success. The 25-year-old Pro Bowl guard has been a stabilizing force on the offensive line, protecting Mahomes and contributing to the team’s Super Bowl LIX victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in February. His decision to adjust his contract, potentially deferring some earnings to future years, underscores a team-first mentality that has endeared him to fans and coaching staff alike. “Trey’s a guy who gets it,” head coach Andy Reid said after practice on Wednesday. “He wants to win, and he’s willing to do what it takes to keep this team strong.”

The restructured deal also buys time for negotiations on a long-term extension, with a July 15 deadline looming under the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement. If no extension is reached by then, Smith will play out the 2025 season under the restructured terms. However, the Chiefs’ front office remains optimistic about securing Smith beyond 2025, especially after trading left guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears earlier this offseason. This move cleared additional cap space and positioned Smith as a key figure in the interior line alongside center Creed Humphrey, whose own contract extension last year reset the market for the position.

Fan sentiment on social media has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Smith’s loyalty and the team’s strategic foresight. Posts found on X highlight excitement about the freed-up cap space, with some speculating on potential free-agent targets or draft picks to address the left tackle position. Others noted the synergy between Smith and Humphrey, suggesting the Chiefs are building a formidable offensive line core for years to come.

The cap relief also comes at a critical juncture as the Chiefs face decisions on other key players. With Mahomes’ contract already restructured multiple times and tight end Travis Kelce confirming his return for 2025 with a $19.8 million cap hit, Veach must balance retaining talent with adding new faces. Restructuring options for players like right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who could free up to $12.6 million, or linebacker Nick Bolton, recently re-signed to a three-year, $45 million deal, remain on the table. However, the focus for now appears to be on leveraging Smith’s adjustment to make immediate roster improvements.

Looking ahead, the Chiefs’ ability to navigate the salary cap will be tested as they aim for a historic three-peat. The restructured contract with Smith not only alleviates immediate pressure but also sets the stage for a potential extension that could backload payments, aligning with the departure of higher-cap-hit players like Taylor in 2026. For now, the move ensures the team remains under the cap with room to maneuver, a testament to Veach’s reputation as one of the NFL’s shrewdest general managers.

As the 2025 season approaches, Chiefs Kingdom can breathe a sigh of relief. With Trey Smith locked in and cap space secured, the team is well-positioned to build on its recent success. For Smith, the restructuring is a personal sacrifice that could pay dividends in the form of another championship ring—and perhaps a lucrative long-term deal in the near future