Bears Eyeing Offensive Line Upgrades, but Trey Smith’s Availability Remains Uncertain
The Chicago Bears are expected to go all-in on revamping their offense around quarterback Caleb Williams this offseason. However, one of the top offensive linemen on the market, Kansas City Chiefs guard Trey Smith, may not be available after all.
Chiefs Determined to Keep Trey Smith Despite Cap Constraints
When the NFL’s franchise tag window opened, it initially seemed like the Bears had a shot at landing Smith in free agency. The Athletic’s Nate Taylor reported that Kansas City was “not expected” to use either the franchise or transition tag on the standout guard.
However, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini later tempered those expectations, noting that the Chiefs are still actively trying to retain Smith, even with their tight salary cap situation—just under $8 million in projected space for 2025. The team has a limited window to work out a deal before the free-agent negotiating period begins on March 10.
James Robinson of The Athletic highlighted Smith’s rare combination of entering free agency and his prime at the same time, ranking as Pro Football Focus’ 14th-best guard in 2024. Given his strong performance, he is expected to command a deal exceeding the $20 million annual average that Carolina’s Robert Hunt secured last offseason. The Patriots, Bears, and Chargers have all been identified as potential suitors if the Chiefs fail to keep him.
Bears Could Prioritize Smith in Free Agency
With a fresh coaching staff and roughly $80 million in estimated cap space, the Bears have the financial flexibility to make a major move in free agency. Addressing the interior offensive line is a top priority, especially with pending free agents Teven Jenkins (LG), Coleman Shelton (C), and Matt Pryor (RG).
Smith, 25, was dominant in pass protection last season, playing 708 pass-blocking snaps without allowing a single sack on Patrick Mahomes, per Pro Football Focus. His run-blocking was equally impressive, earning the 10th-highest grade (80.8) among guards. However, his struggles in the postseason might give some teams pause.
While Smith would be a premier addition, his projected $20+ million annual salary could be a significant commitment. The Bears will need to weigh whether they are comfortable making such a substantial investment in their offensive line.
That decision may ultimately be out of their hands if the Chiefs successfully negotiate an extension.
Alternative Options for the Bears’ Offensive Line
If Kansas City retains Smith, the Bears will need to look elsewhere to strengthen their offensive front.
One potential target is Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman. Entering free agency in his prime, Dalman has steadily improved over the years and could be a long-term solution at a position that has plagued Chicago for multiple seasons. Although he missed some time with injury in 2024, his upside makes him an intriguing option.
Another alternative is Indianapolis Colts veteran Ryan Kelly. While the 31-year-old isn’t a long-term answer like Dalman, he is a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s most reliable pass-blocking centers. Kelly would likely come at a more affordable price compared to younger free agents.
The guard market also offers solid options if Smith stays in Kansas City. One name to watch is Kevin Zeitler, who had an excellent season with the Detroit Lions and has experience working under new Bears head coach Ben Johnson. Zeitler could be a cost-effective signing if Chicago opts to allocate its resources elsewhere.
With the NFL’s legal tampering period beginning on March 10 and free agency officially opening on March 12, the Bears will soon have clarity on which direction they’ll take in fortifying their offensive line.
