Kansas City Chiefs 2025 Offseason: Key Dates, Deadlines, and Extension Decisions

The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2025 offseason looking to build on their recent dynasty, which includes multiple Super Bowl victories under head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. However, crucial decisions loom, including contract extensions for key players like right guard Trey Smith, who is entering a pivotal year in his career.

This comprehensive guide breaks down all the important dates, deadlines, and milestones for the Chiefs’ 2025 offseason, including the critical window for extending Smith and other roster moves.

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1. Key Offseason Dates & Deadlines

January-February 2025: Season Wrap-Up & Early Decisions

• Late January (if Chiefs miss Super Bowl): Coaching staff evaluations begin.

• February 4: Waiver system resumes for the 2025 league year.

• February 18: First day for teams to designate Franchise or Transition Tag players.

March 2025: Free Agency & League Year Begins

• March 3-9: NFL Scouting Combine (Indianapolis) – Chiefs evaluate draft prospects.

• March 11: Deadline to apply Franchise/Transition Tags (4:00 PM ET).

• March 12-13: Legal “tampering” period – Teams can negotiate with free agents.

• March 14: 2025 League Year begins (4:00 PM ET) – Free agent signings become official, trades can be processed.

• March 30-April 3: Annual League Meeting (Potential rule changes discussed).

April 2025: Draft Prep & Offseason Workouts

• April 7: Chiefs offseason workout program begins (Phase 1 – Strength & Conditioning).

• April 21: Offseason workouts (Phase 2 – On-field drills, no contact).

• April 24-26: 2025 NFL Draft (Location TBD) – Chiefs will make selections based on team needs.

May-June 2025: OTAs, Minicamps, & Extensions

• May 12-14, May 19-21, May 26-28: Organized Team Activities (OTAs) – Voluntary workouts.

• June 10-12: Mandatory Minicamp – All players under contract must attend.

• June 15: Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets.

• June 25-27: Potential window for Trey Smith extension talks (more details below).

July 2025: Training Camp Approaches

• Mid-July: Rookies report to training camp.

• Late July: Veterans report – Full squad prepares for preseason.

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2. Trey Smith’s Contract Situation & Extension Timeline

Right guard Trey Smith, a 2021 sixth-round pick, has been a steal for the Chiefs, starting since his rookie year and playing a key role in their dominant offensive line. Entering the final year of his rookie deal in 2025, Kansas City must decide whether to extend him before he hits free agency in 2026.

Key Factors in Smith’s Extension:

• Market Value: Top guards earn $14M-$18M per year (e.g., Quenton Nelson, Chris Lindstrom).

• Chiefs’ Cap Situation: Kansas City must balance Mahomes’ mega-deal with other key re-signings (e.g., Creed Humphrey, Nick Bolton).

• Performance: Smith’s durability and run-blocking prowess make him a priority.

When Could an Extension Happen?

• June-July 2025: Chiefs historically extend core players (e.g., Travis Kelce, Chris Jones) during this period.

• Training Camp (Late July): If no deal is reached, Smith could play 2025 on his current contract and test free agency.

• Franchise Tag in 2026? If no extension, Chiefs could tag Smith (~$18M for OL in 2026).

Prediction: The Chiefs will likely extend Smith in June 2025 on a 4-year, $60M deal ($15M/year) to keep their O-line intact.

3. Other Key Chiefs Offseason Priorities

Free Agency & Cap Management

• Potential Cuts/Restructures:

  • Marquez Valdes-Scantling ($12M cap savings if cut).

  • Justin Reid ($10M+ savings with restructure).

• Key Free Agents (2025):

  • Willie Gay Jr. (LB) – Will he return on a team-friendly deal?

  • Mike Danna (DE) – Chiefs may prioritize re-signing him.

  • Jerick McKinnon (RB) – Veteran leadership, but likely replaced.

NFL Draft Needs

• Wide Receiver: Even with Rashee Rice emerging, Chiefs need another dynamic pass-catcher.

• Defensive Line: Chris Jones isn’t getting younger; depth needed.

• Offensive Tackle: Donovan Smith is a short-term fix; future LT needed.

Chiefs’ Road to Another Super Bowl Run

The 2025 offseason is critical for Kansas City’s long-term success. Extending Trey Smith ensures stability on the O-line, while smart free-agent moves and draft picks can keep the Chiefs in championship contention.

Key Takeaways:
 March 11-14: Franchise tag decisions & free agency frenzy.
 April 24-26: NFL Draft – Chiefs must find immediate contributors.
 June-July: Trey Smith extension window – A deal should get done.
 Training Camp (July): Final prep before another Super Bowl push.

If Brett Veach and Andy Reid navigate this offseason wisely, Kansas City could be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy once again in February 2026.

 The Chiefs’ front office has proven adept at managing the cap and retaining core players. Expect Trey Smith to be the next homegrown star locked up long-term, ensuring Mahomes has elite protection for years to come.