What is Premier Access? Premier Access offers a tri-weekly newsletter that delivers inside analysis and unique insights straight from the heart of Kansas City Chiefs football, straight to your inbox. Below is a preview of the latest edition, with a link to the previous preview.Click here for the last edition.
By Pete Sweeney
With the initial rush of free agency now behind us, we are starting to gain a clearer picture of the offseason plans set by Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach.
Prior to the start of free agency, our tracker had 35 players under contract returning from last season, though that number dipped to 34 following the trade of left guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears. Presently, there are 15 new reserve/future contracts and 24 new contracts set for 2025. The Chiefs have four free agents still available on the market.
As more details about the new contracts emerge, our expert Jared Sapp examines the current state of the team’s salary cap for 2025.
Recently, several new players signed by the Chiefs participated in media sessions. Here are five noteworthy quotes:
Right Guard Trey Smith: Honest Insights from FanDuel TV’s Kay Adams
Smith recently engaged in a candid 10-minute discussion with Adams about his offseason and contract situation. Currently, Smith has signed his franchise tag and is preparing to play on a one-year, $23.4 million deal unless both sides reach a new agreement by July 15.
Consistently thoughtful in his media interactions, Smith has even praised Kingsley Suamataia promptly after a game where he had to be substituted. With Adams, he openly expressed his desire to remain with the Chiefs both now and in the future.
“I can only focus on just working out and training,” shared Smith. “I love Kansas City — it’s my home. I love the Chiefs. The fans in Kansas City are among the best people I’ve ever encountered. Ultimately, I would love to stay here. That’s my plan.”
Regarding his performance in pass blocking during 2024, Smith excelled in some games, allowing one or fewer pressures in nine matches. Nevertheless, there were also moments he may have liked to improve upon, as he allowed three or more pressures in four games, including the Divisional Round and Super Bowl.
Even though Smith will earn quadruple the amount in 2025 compared to his entire four-year career earnings, he views the challenge positively.
“I think for me, the main thing is just to be consistent,” he added. “Be great — but be great consistently. That’s the mission I’m on. I strive to not just reach my best potential but to perform at that level week in and week out.”
What else is included in this edition?
- Highlights of four additional notable quotes from the Chiefs from last week.
- Jared Sapp provides an assessment of where the salary cap stands leading into NFL Draft month.
- A link to the full hour-long episode of the “Editors Show” (preview below).
The Editors Show
Catch a preview of this week’s Editors Show featuring Pete Sweeney and John Dixon.
What else is included in a subscription?
During the offseason, you will receive a weekly update on Wednesdays, as well as additional coverage on major events like free agency and the NFL Draft. Once the season rolls around, subscribers can expect three weekly newsletters, as follows:
- In our Thursday game preview newsletter, Pete shares three key insights heading into the game. Additionally, Rocky Magaña highlights a crucial matchup to keep an eye on, while John Dixon provides background on one of the game’s major narratives.
- In our post-game newsletter, Pete shares his three takeaways from each game, Ron Kopp offers his first look at the game film, while Jared Sapp compiles all the commentary surrounding significant turning points of the match.
- Brandon Kiley serves as our in-season Tuesday columnist.
How to subscribe to Premier Access
Join us today through this link to unlock even more Chiefs content this season. Right now, there is a coupon code offering a 25% discount for the entire year.
Use coupon code PODCAST25 to save 25% on your annual subscription.