The Kansas City Chiefs plan to keep pending free agent right guard Trey Smith from exploring the open market this offseason. CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones reports that the three-time defending AFC champions intend to use the franchise tag on Smith, which would secure a fully guaranteed one-year contract valued at $23.4 million.

This strategy also allows the Chiefs additional time to negotiate a long-term deal. This decision marks the fourth significant investment in Patrick Mahomes’ offensive line, following a series of deals that include making Creed Humphrey the highest-paid center in the NFL with a four-year deal worth $72 million and signing right tackle Jawaan Taylor to a $80 million contract. Joe Thuney, another key player, is on a lucrative deal as well and was recently shifted to left tackle due to injuries.

Trey Smith, at 25 years old, has made a mark in the league, leading the NFL in pass protection snaps without surrendering a sack during the last season. He has proved to be reliable, starting 67 of 68 games in his four-year career. Given the importance of keeping Mahomes protected, the Chiefs need to bolster both tackle positions to ensure stability on the offensive line.