The NFL allows teams to apply franchise tags to eligible players before free agency begins, typically between February 18 and March 4. This designation binds the player to the team for one season and is based on the top five salaries at each position.
Last season, nine players were tagged, including Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins. One such player is Trey Smith, a guard who was tagged by the Chiefs with a salary of $23.4 million.
The Chiefs applied the franchise tag to Smith due to their struggles in protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes in 2024. Despite concerns about a blood clot disorder, Smith has been durable and started all 81 regular-season and playoff games since joining the Chiefs in 2021. He excelled in pass blocking, ranking sixth best among guards last season.
Smith’s contract highlights his skills as an aggressive player who has often flown under the radar playing on an interior offensive line. His performance makes him a key member of the Chiefs’ offense.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43812803/2025-nfl-franchise-tag-tracker-kansas-city-chiefs-tag-pro-bowl-guard-trey-smith