ESPN analyst names potential future Hall of Fame player as a perfect fit for the Kansas City Chiefs' roster in 2025
Much of what the Kansas City Chiefs will do during the 2025 offseason hinges on the direction they go with right guard Trey Smith. Smith is set to hit free agency, with the legal tampering period beginning on March 10, and signings able to become official on March 12. The Chiefs could sign him to a […]
Much of what the Kansas City Chiefs will do during the 2025 offseason hinges on the direction they go with right guard Trey Smith.
Smith is set to hit free agency, with the legal tampering period beginning on March 10, and signings able to become official on March 12. The Chiefs could sign him to a long-term contract, hit him with the franchise or transition tag, or let him walk. Smith is expected to have a strong market and get top dollar among all NFL offensive linemen.
If Kansas City decides not to retain Smith, it will need a new starting RG. It's in-house options include C.J. Hanson, Mike Caliendo, or even Kingsley Suamataia – who could attempt to switch to RG after a failed rookie season at left tackle. None of those options are very inspiring, potentially leading the Chiefs to find an affordable free agent.
In the opinion of ESPN analyst Matt Bowen, free agent RG Zack Martin would be a perfect fit for the Chiefs.
"We have Trey Smith fitting with the Bears, leaving an open spot on the interior of the Kansas City front," Bowen wrote. "Martin still brings the blend of size (6-4, 315 pounds) and mobility that coaches want at the guard position. Last season, Martin played in 10 games due to a right ankle injury, but his pass block win rate of 93.7% ranked 15th among guards. He could help keep that Chiefs interior strong (though the OT position also needs a lengthy look this offseason)."
Martin is a decorated 11-year NFL veteran who has spent his entire career with the Dallas Cowboys. During that time he has earned nine First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, potentially putting him on track to make the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Winning a Super Bowl ring would enhance his case, which he'll likely have the opportunity to do if he signs with K.C.
Given his age and him coming off ankle surgery, Martin should be an affordable, short-term solution. He may not be All-Pro caliber anymore, but he's still playing at a high level and would bring valuable leadership and experience to the Chiefs' O-line. Martin is a particularly good pass blocker, which is a plus in coach Andy Reid's offensive system.
Kansas City Chiefs free agent positional preview: Examining potential options at interior offensive line
K.C. may need a new right guard.
