Chiefs Make History — NFL’s Highest Paid Guard Signs Record-Breaking Deal

By Jason Bolton July 16, 2025 09:02

The Kansas City Chiefs have made NFL history by signing right guard Trey Smith to a groundbreaking four-year, $94 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid guard in league history. The deal, which includes $70 million fully guaranteed, sets a new standard for interior linemen and highlights the Chiefs' commitment to maintaining a dominant offensive line to protect superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Smith’s new contract, averaging $23.5 million annually, surpasses the previous record held by Philadelphia’s Landon Dickerson, who earned $21 million per year. His guaranteed money of $70 million also eclipses the mark set by Carolina’s Robert Hunt ($63 million guaranteed). While a few players like Atlanta’s Chris Lindstrom and Hunt have secured bigger deals in terms of total contract value, those were over five years. Smith’s four-year pact places him at the top for the position in contract structure and financial security.

Selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft (226th overall), Smith’s rise to the upper echelon of NFL guards is a textbook case of perseverance and elite development. Since joining the Chiefs, the 26-year-old has started all 67 games including 13 playoff contests and earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 2024. His consistent level of play has been critical in the Chiefs’ recent success, helping the team secure two Super Bowl titles in four seasons.

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach emphasized Smith’s integral role in the offense, stating, “I’d like to congratulate Trey on a well-deserved deal. Trey embodies everything we look for in a player toughness, intelligence, and a relentless work ethic. He’s an elite guard in this league, and we’re excited to have him locked in long-term.” This extension ensures stability amid a retooled offensive line, especially important after offseason changes like the departure of left guard Joe Thuney and uncertainty around tackle Joe Thuney’s health.

Smith’s dominance isn’t just evident in longevity; his performance metrics validate his standing. By anchoring the right guard spot, Smith has allowed the Chiefs to mitigate pressures on Mahomes, who registered a 68.3% completion percentage and 4,760 passing yards in 2024, contributing to the offense’s league-best efficiency. Smith’s interior blocking prowess paves the way for the ground game as well, fostering stiff run blocking crucial to complementing the Chiefs’ high-octane passing attack.

Adding to his popular profile, Smith has become a fan favorite since arriving in Kansas City. He’s made media appearances, including a cameo in the 2024 Hallmark Channel film “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story”, and partnered with teammates in local commercials, endearing himself further to the community.

The deal also has significant roster implications. While securing Smith fortifies the interior line, it clears the way for the Chiefs to consider next steps on the right tackle position, where Jawaan Taylor, with the second-highest cap hit on the team, faces doubts over his future. Experts suggest Smith’s massive contract signals the Chiefs’ intention to reshape their offensive line around younger talent such as Jaylon Moore and Josh Simmons while resettling salary priorities.

As NFL insider Jonathan Jones noted, “This extension resets the market and establishes Trey Smith as the premier guard in the league. The Chiefs made a decisive move to keep a critical piece of their championship-caliber offensive front.”

In short, the Chiefs’ record-breaking investment in Trey Smith reflects both his individual excellence and the franchise’s broader strategy: maintaining a dominant, seasoned offensive line to maximize the window of opportunity with Mahomes at quarterback. With Smith locked up through 2028, Kansas City has sent a strong message that their championship aspirations remain intact, centered around stability and elite talent in the trenches.