The Kansas City Chiefs have won two straight games and own a 4-3 record on the season. They are set to host the Washington Commanders on Monday Night Football and will be facing backup quarterback Marcus Mariota after starter Jayden Daniels ruled out with a hamstring injury.
While they prepare for this contest, the Chiefs got some great news on guard Trey Smith. In a tweet posted by the X account "Chiefs Blitz," sources told 96.5 The Fan that Smith's back is "nothing serious" and he's expected to be fine. This appears to be a step forward, but we'll have to see the official reporting from the team to make sure.
Trey Smith Reportedly Avoided Serious Injury
Smith left the win over the Raiders after his back locked up on him. It led to Mike Caliendo finishing the game at guard, but of course, Kansas City wants their star out in the fold on Monday night. Whether or not he plays against the Commanders remains to be seen, but if he actually avoided anything significant, that's a win.
Back in July, Smith and the Chiefs agreed on a record-breaking four-year, $94 million deal, which included $70 million guaranteed. That was the most guarantees given to a guard in NFL history, but it just shows how much Kansas City believes in him.
Thus far into the 2025 season, Smith is one of the best players at his position. According to Pro Football Focus, he has a 71.5 overall grade (13th among 82 graded guards), 81.2 pass-blocking grade (4th among 82 graded guards), and a 61.5 run-blocking grade (34th among 82 graded guards).
Keeping Patrick Mahomes upright is his biggest job, and he's done that at a high level throughout his career, and it continues this season. Smith has only allowed two QB hits and zero sacks in 2025.
If Smith can't give it a go, it'll be Caliendo who likely gets the start for KC. The Chiefs have Jaylon Moore in the starting lineup as well, with Josh Simmons away from the team as he deals with a personal matter.
Throughout the course of the regular season, there will be injuries, and it's all about how you weather that storm. Kansas City seems prepared to do so if Smith can't give it a run, but the initial reporting is positive news.