The Chicago Bears will have plenty of cap space when the 2025 NFL free agency period begins in three weeks. However, they are still waiting to see which players will hit the open market rather than re-sign with their current teams. Many top free agents could agree to contract extensions before the new league year officially starts on March 12, while others—like Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver, may receive one-year franchise tags to remain with their teams for the 2025 season.
That said, the Bears might benefit from how franchise tags are applied, as one of their potential top targets is expected to avoid being tagged. According to The Athletic’s Nate Taylor, the Kansas City Chiefs are not expected to use the franchise or transition tag on Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith. If he becomes available, Smith would be among the best options on the market. During the 2024 season, he did not allow a single sack in 708 pass-blocking snaps while protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He also earned an impressive 80.8 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, cementing his status as one of the league’s top interior linemen.
At just 25 years old, Smith would be a prime addition for a team looking to strengthen its offensive line, making him an ideal target for the Bears. The key question now is whether the Chiefs will extend him before free agency opens.