Chicago Bears 2025 Free Agency Plan Hits Major Setback as Trey Smith Receives Franchise Tag
As the 2025 NFL free agency period approaches, the Chicago Bears were gearing up for a significant offseason. With a young quarterback in Justin Fields and an offensive line that still needs significant upgrades, the Bears had targeted several top-tier free agents to improve their roster. One of the key targets for the Bears was Kansas City Chiefs guard Trey Smith, who was expected to hit free agency as one of the premier interior offensive linemen available.
However, in a move that shook the Bears’ plans, the Chiefs announced that they had placed the franchise tag on Smith, effectively removing him from the free-agent pool for the time being. This decision represents a major setback for Chicago’s strategy as they look to improve their offensive line and give Fields the protection he desperately needs.
What Does Trey Smith’s Franchise Tag Mean for the Bears?
The franchise tag is a tool used by NFL teams to retain a player’s rights for one more season while negotiating a long-term deal. The decision to franchise Smith came as no surprise to many, as the 24-year-old guard has quickly become one of the most dominant players at his position since being drafted in 2021. The Chiefs are clearly making a statement that they want to keep Smith around as they continue to contend for championships in the AFC.
For the Bears, Smith’s franchise tag represents a significant loss. The team had reportedly been eyeing Smith as a key piece of their free agency plan, particularly given the young offensive line and the lack of a proven, top-tier guard to pair with Fields. Smith’s combination of strength, technique, and youth made him an ideal fit for Chicago’s rebuilding offensive line, which has struggled in recent years.
Now, with Smith locked in with Kansas City for the 2025 season, the Bears are left scrambling to find other solutions in a crowded free-agent market. Chicago’s need for a reliable interior offensive lineman hasn’t diminished, and the pressure is mounting for general manager Ryan Poles to pivot quickly and find an alternative option.
The Bears’ Offensive Line Struggles and the Need for a Solution
In 2024, the Bears’ offensive line was inconsistent, and the team ranked near the bottom of the league in both pass protection and run blocking. Fields was frequently under pressure, and while his mobility helped him evade sacks at times, the lack of a strong, stable offensive line severely hindered his development. Protecting a young quarterback like Fields should be the team’s number one priority, and strengthening the offensive line is a key part of their blueprint for success.
While the Bears have young talent on the offensive line, such as Teven Jenkins and Cody Whitehair, the unit still lacks the stability and consistency needed to compete with top defenses. Adding a player like Smith, who excels in both run blocking and pass protection, would have given the Bears the stability they need to build an effective offense around Fields. The move to tag Smith, however, forces the Bears to adjust their approach.
What Are the Bears’ Alternatives?
Although losing out on Trey Smith is a blow, the Bears’ free agency plan is far from over. There are still several options available in the free-agent market that could provide the upgrade Chicago desperately needs along the interior of their offensive line. Here are a few potential targets the Bears could pursue:
1. Nate Davis (Tennessee Titans)
Age: 26
2024 Salary: Projected $8 million
Nate Davis has been a steady and reliable guard for the Tennessee Titans, known for his physicality and ability to contribute in both the run game and pass protection. Davis is coming off a strong season and would be a welcome addition to a Bears offensive line that needs a powerful interior presence. His ability to create lanes for the running game, paired with his solid pass protection, makes him an ideal target for Chicago.
2. Isaac Seumalo (Philadelphia Eagles)
Age: 30
2024 Salary: Projected $10 million
Isaac Seumalo has been a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive line and brings significant experience to the table. A versatile player who can play multiple positions along the interior line, Seumalo’s leadership and consistency would provide a steadying influence on the Bears’ young offensive line. His ability to thrive in both run blocking and pass protection would be valuable for a Bears team that needs stability.
3. Ben Powers (Baltimore Ravens)
Age: 27
2024 Salary: Projected $9 million
Ben Powers is a rising star in the NFL and has become one of the most coveted interior linemen. Powers has a great combination of strength and technique, and he has been instrumental in the Ravens’ ability to run the football effectively. The Bears would benefit from Powers’ ability to move defenders in the run game while also providing solid pass protection for Fields.
4. Michael Schofield (Los Angeles Chargers)
Age: 33
2024 Salary: Projected $6 million
While Michael Schofield may not have the same upside as younger players like Davis or Powers, he brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the table. Schofield has played for several NFL teams and has been a steady performer throughout his career. His leadership and ability to play both guard positions could make him an excellent short-term solution for the Bears as they continue to build for the future.
The Importance of Offensive Line Upgrades for Justin Fields
While the Bears’ offensive line struggles have been well-documented, the situation becomes even more pressing when you consider the future of Justin Fields. Fields is undeniably one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, capable of making incredible plays with his legs and arm. However, without sufficient protection, his potential cannot be fully realized.
The Bears’ offensive line needs to give him a clean pocket to make plays, and it must be strong enough to open running lanes for the team’s running backs. Adding a high-caliber guard would not only help stabilize the line but also provide Fields with the support he needs to become the leader of the offense that the Bears hope he will be.
How Does Trey Smith’s Franchise Tag Affect the Bears’ Long-Term Plans?
The franchise tag on Trey Smith might have thrown a wrench in the Bears’ immediate free-agent plans, but it could also change how they approach their long-term offensive line strategy. While the Bears will now have to find another solution for the guard position, their priority should remain on strengthening the line to ensure Fields has the time and space to grow into the star quarterback they hope he can be.
In the draft, the Bears may look for offensive line prospects who can develop into future starters. With several top-tier offensive linemen available in the 2025 draft class, Chicago could explore options to add depth to their line while also ensuring that they have a long-term solution at guard.
Additionally, the Bears should consider how they approach other areas of their roster, including the wide receiver and defensive front seven positions. While the setback with Trey Smith is significant, it is only one piece of the puzzle, and Chicago’s ability to make the right moves in free agency and the draft will be crucial to their future success.
Losing out on Trey Smith due to his franchise tag is undoubtedly a blow to the Bears’ 2025 free agency plans. However, Chicago still has plenty of options to address their offensive line and continue building around Justin Fields. The team will need to pivot quickly to secure another starting-caliber guard and strengthen its offensive line, which will be a top priority for the Bears heading into free agency.
With a plethora of quality free-agent guards still available, the Bears have the opportunity to make a move that keeps them on track to improve their offensive line and, ultimately, their offense. The setback with Smith serves as a reminder of the challenges of free agency, but it also presents an opportunity for Chicago to find the right fit for their system and future.