The Kansas City Chiefs are entering a critical phase as their franchise-tag window opens on February 18 at 3 p.m. Arrowhead Time. The tag will allow the team to retain key players due to impending free agency. The non-exclusive franchise tag is the most common version, permitting tagged players to negotiate with other teams while reserving the right for the original team to match offers.
The Chiefs have identified three main candidates: right guard Trey Smith, linebacker Nick Bolton, and safety Justin Reid. However, it’s unlikely that Kansas City will use the tag on any of these players due to limited salary cap space. Currently, the team has approximately $4.3 million in available space, far less than what would be required for a franchise tag.
As the NFL Scouting Combine approaches from February 24 to March 3, general manager Brett Veach may address the media about ongoing contract talks with the representatives of Smith and Bolton. The combine will also provide an opportunity for teams to discuss long-term contracts with draft prospects.
Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2025/2/17/24367267/chiefs-news-franchise-tag-window-open-nick-bolton-trey-smith