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Future HOF Lineman Advised to Sign With Chiefs Instead of Retiring

ByJoseph Grassano|
Nov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt (29) scores the game-winning touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as guard Joe Thuney (62) and guard Mike Caliendo (66) celebrate during the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Nov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt (29) scores the game-winning touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as guard Joe Thuney (62) and guard Mike Caliendo (66) celebrate during the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs offensive line is expected to undergo some changes this offseason. It begins with All-Pro right guard Trey Smith's contract expiring. Although rumors have picked up over the past day that the Chiefs could transition tag him, they may struggle to match offers from other teams.

As a result, Kansas City will be tasked with finding a replacement for Smith in free agency or the draft. Unfortunately, there aren't many cheap options on the free agent market who can step in and actually help the Chiefs offensive line. That said, one veteran offensive lineman who is contemplating retirement could be a good option if he decided not to hang up the cleats.

In a recent article, Matt Bowen of ESPN suggested that Kansas City should sign future Hall of Famer Zack Martin to replace Smith.

Will the Chiefs Replace Trey Smith With Zack Martin This Offseason?

Heading into this offseason, it's been heavily speculated that the 34-year-old guard will retire. However, if Martin doesn't step away, he is unlikely to return to Dallas, as they are trying to build a younger offensive line. Therefore, Martin landing in Kansas City is a realistic possibility.

Martin would be more than suitable as a replacement for Smith. In 11 seasons, Martin has been an All-Pro and a Pro Bowler nine times. Furthermore, Martin has only posted a pass blocking grade below 80 three times in his career, according to PFF. That level of dominance is exactly what Kansas City needs to replace Smith,

Despite that, the 34-year-old has dealt with injuries over the past two seasons. In 2023, Martin missed two games with ankle and thigh injuries. Then, in 2024, Martin missed seven games due to an ankle injury. The past two campaigns show a clear deterioration of Martin's body.

Nonetheless, if Martin still has any juice left in the tank he's worth Kansas City taking a shot on. At the very least, Martin will be looking to win a Super Bowl and may be willing to take less money to do so.

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