KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Four-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce and Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith appeared at the Kansas City Chiefs’ mandatory three-day minicamp on Tuesday, after both had previously missed voluntary workouts. Kelce attends the minicamp amid ongoing contract negotiations, while Smith, who was tagged by the Chiefs this offseason, aims to secure a long-term deal before the mid-July deadline.

Trey Smith’s Contract Status and Decision to Report

Selected in the sixth round of the 2021 draft despite concerns over his health, Trey Smith has significantly exceeded expectations, earning the franchise tag that guarantees him $23.4 million for the upcoming season. With contract talks still underway, Smith chose to join the mandatory minicamp instead of risking fines, signaling a willingness to cooperate during this critical period. His attendance contrasts with past holdouts such as defensive tackle Chris Jones, who once skipped an entire preseason before agreeing to terms.

It’s good (Smith) didn’t take my approach,

Jones quipped.

He shouldn’t take advice from me.

—Chris Jones, Defensive Tackle

Offensive Line Rebuild Takes Shape During Minicamp

During the roughly 90-minute session, the Chiefs explored various lineup options for their offensive front, which struggled to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes last season and notably during the Super Bowl loss to the Eagles. To address these issues, Kansas City traded two-time All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears in March, starting a significant makeover along the offensive line.

Additionally, the Chiefs selected offensive tackle Josh Simmons from Ohio State with the 32nd overall pick. Despite Simmons slipping in the draft due to a knee injury, the Chiefs were confident in their medical evaluation. His presence and mobility during minicamp suggest he is on the path to becoming a key contributor.

Just trying to be available as I can right now,

Simmons stated.

Expectations for Simmons and Offensive Line Cohesion

It remains uncertain whether Josh Simmons will fully participate when training camp starts in late July, but current progress offers optimism for his readiness. Simmons expressed eagerness to engage as much as the coaching staff permits, aiming to get on the field as quickly as possible.

I wanted to be able to throw the pads on ASAP,

Simmons said.

Whatever the staff allows me to do, I’m definitely going to do.

Building a Stronger Offensive Line Around Mahomes

The Chiefs are also counting on second-year player Kingsley Suamataia to successfully transition from tackle to guard, filling the vacancy left by Thuney on the left side. When paired with Simmons on the left and anchored by All-Pro center Creed Humphrey, plus Trey Smith at right guard and veteran Jawaan Taylor at right tackle, the Chiefs hope to assemble their most effective offensive line in years. This restructured front aims to improve protection for Mahomes and bolster the team’s offensive performance.