“Chiefs Hit With Major Injury Blow Before Monday Night — Trey Smith’s Ironman Streak In Jeopardy”

“Chiefs Hit With Major Injury Blow Before Monday Night — Trey Smith’s Ironman Streak In Jeopardy”

The Kansas City Chiefs could be heading into Monday night’s clash with the Washington Commanders without one of their most reliable protectors. Right guard Trey Smith — the unsung anchor of Kansas City’s offensive line — is officially listed as doubtful with a lingering lower back injury, threatening to snap a remarkable three-year streak of near-perfect durability.

Since entering the league in 2021, Smith has been a rock. He’s started 87 of 88 games, including playoff runs and Super Bowls, embodying the consistency that’s helped Patrick Mahomes thrive. But now, for the first time in years, the Chiefs might have to line up without him. And the timing couldn’t be worse.

Smith suffered low back spasms during last week’s win over the Raiders, forcing him to miss most of the game and every practice from Thursday through Saturday. Head coach Andy Reid told reporters Smith is “improving,” but admitted the big man isn’t ready yet.

That’s when things got interesting. “‘He’s improving, but not ready yet...’ — Andy Reid’s update on Trey Smith leaves fans wondering if there’s more to the story than just an injury.” The coach’s cautious tone sparked concern throughout Chiefs Kingdom, as many began to question whether Smith’s back issue might be more serious — or more complicated — than initially reported.

The blow comes just as Kansas City is already shorthanded on the offensive line. Right tackle Josh Simmons remains away from the team due to personal family matters — something Coach Reid said the organization is handling “with full support and privacy.” Without Smith and Simmons, the Chiefs face a daunting task against one of the league’s most physical defensive fronts.

Beyond this week, there’s uncertainty. The team hasn’t indicated whether Smith could miss additional time — including next week’s matchup against the Buffalo Bills. His contract extension talks, already on the to-do list, may now take on even greater urgency as Kansas City looks to secure its foundational pieces long-term.

For Mahomes and the Chiefs, the mission stays the same: protect the quarterback, keep the rhythm. But if Trey Smith can’t go Monday night, Arrowhead might feel just a little less secure.