As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for their regular season debut, the front office is actively working on potential contract extensions for several key players.
Last Thursday, general manager Brett Veach updated reporters on the status of these negotiations, specifically mentioning right guard Trey Smith and linebacker Nick Bolton.
“We’ve been in discussions with Trey [Smith],” Veach noted. “We still have some time to go, and we’ll have further talks with both Trey’s and Nick [Bolton’s] representatives.”
Smith has been a pivotal part of the Chiefs’ offensive line since joining the team in 2021. Despite initial injury concerns upon entering the league, he has started all 50 regular season games since his rookie year. Known for his aggressive blocking style, Smith plays a significant role in shaping the Chiefs’ offensive approach.
Meanwhile, Bolton has established himself as a vital leader on the Chiefs’ defense. Although he missed eight games last season due to a wrist injury, he remained one of the NFL’s top middle linebackers. When healthy, Bolton proved to be the team’s most dependable tackler, demonstrating his importance during the playoffs with 40 tackles in four games, including a team-leading 13 in the Super Bowl.
Smith and Bolton are both part of the Chiefs’ standout 2021 draft class, which also includes center Creed Humphrey, who recently signed a four-year, $72 million extension. As they enter their fourth season, these players are approaching the end of their rookie contracts and are set to become unrestricted free agents next offseason. Consequently, securing their future with the team has become a key priority for Veach.
Veach also addressed the difficulties of managing multiple contract negotiations at once, particularly with several key players seeking new deals.
“It’s a bit challenging in the offseason,” Veach explained. “Handling four contracts simultaneously is tough, especially when the outcomes and financial allocations are uncertain. It’s a systematic process, and it can be drawn out.”
Despite these hurdles, Veach is pleased with the progress the front office has made, pointing to successful extensions for Humphrey and kicker Harrison Butker as examples.
“We were able to finalize Harrison [Butker’s] deal fairly quickly,” Veach said. “Creed [Humphrey’s] deal was more complex—it took some time. He’s a fantastic player, and I’m thrilled to have him secured.”
As the offseason nears its end, Veach remains hopeful about advancing discussions with Smith, Bolton, and other young players whose contracts are expiring soon.
“We still have time before the season starts,” Veach said. “We’ll keep working to make progress with the remaining players, especially the younger ones who will be up next year.”
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