Ben Johnson announced the team’s trading plans. Head coach. Ben Johnson announced the team’s trading plans for 2 more key players following the latest update on top offensive lineman Trey Smith joining the Bears.
The 2025 NFL Free Agency period is still weeks away, and the NFL Draft is more than two months out. However, it’s no secret that the Chicago Bears must strengthen their offensive line this offseason. One of the top targets fans hope the Bears will pursue is Kansas City Chiefs guard Trey Smith.
Smith, a two-time Super Bowl champion, had a shot at winning his third straight ring before the Chiefs fell to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 59. Kansas City’s offensive line struggled against the Eagles’ relentless pressure, but Smith was far from the team’s biggest issue.
As one of the top guards set to hit free agency, Smith is expected to land a lucrative contract, whether with the Bears or another team. Many analysts consider him the ideal fit for Chicago’s offensive line needs.
However, there’s a possibility Smith won’t reach the open market. Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has hinted at retirement, which would free up $17.25 million in cap space—potentially allowing Kansas City to retain Smith.
With that uncertainty, the Bears need a backup plan in case Smith remains in Kansas City. The NFL’s franchise tag window is open, and while it’s unlikely the Chiefs will tag Smith, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has noted that it remains a possibility.
Even if he becomes available, Smith is projected to earn over $21 million per year, setting a new benchmark for guard contracts. If Chicago must look elsewhere, alternative options include Will Fries—who is expected to command a high salary himself—and veteran Kevin Zeitler, who played under Bears head coach Ben Johnson in Detroit but is already 34 years old.
The limited options make it easy to understand why many Bears fans are all-in on Smith. However, they should brace for the possibility that Kansas City could use a franchise or transition tag to either keep him or demand significant compensation from any team looking to acquire him. Ben Johnson announced the team’s trading plans.
