On Tuesday, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach noted that he was “optimistic” a long-term deal with Smith could be struck. Rapoport reiterated that remains the hope despite using the tag.

The fact that the Chiefs needed to utilize the franchise tender ahead of the March 4 window closing could indicate that a deal won’t come as soon as Veach hoped. However, ensuring their starting guard doesn’t hit the open market is step one in reaching a long-term pact.

Smith allowed just one sack and 34 QB pressures in 2024, per Pro Football Focus. Despite the Chiefs’ interior O-line getting attacked after the moving Joe Thuney outside, Smith was poised to be the top guard hitting the open market.

Now, that honor falls elsewhere.

Teams hoping to ink Smith — like Chicago — will have to take a different route. The move underscores that high-quality offensive linemen rarely hit unencumbered free agency.

Last year, the Chiefs franchise tagged cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and eventually traded him to Tennessee, which signed the CB to a long-term deal. K.C. seems more likely to keep Smith around this time around. However, the Chiefs now have a boatload of money tied up in the offensive line.

In addition to Smith being the top-paid guard, Creed Humphrey is the highest-paid center ($18 million per year). Thuney makes $16 million per season but has no guaranteed dollars left, making him a candidate for adjustment. Jawaan Taylor is the third-highest-paid right tackle in football, making $20 million annually. Then there is the gaping hole at left tackle that caused the Chiefs’ blocking woes in 2024.