Trey Smith will reunite with his old Tennessee Vols teammate in free agency, according to an NFL executive.

Trey Smith, the standout offensive lineman for the Kansas City Chiefs, is reportedly set to reunite with a former teammate from his college days at the University of Tennessee. According to an anonymous NFL executive, Smith’s upcoming move in free agency is expected to bring him back together with a key Vols player from his college years. This reunion could have a significant impact both for Smith’s professional future and for the teams involved in this new chapter of his career.
Smith, a dominant force on the offensive line, became one of the most recognized figures in Tennessee football history during his time in Knoxville. Known for his grit, power, and exceptional blocking ability, Smith was a key player on the Vols’ offensive line before entering the NFL draft. He was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2021 NFL Draft and has since become an important part of the Chiefs’ offensive front, helping to protect star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
However, recent rumors suggest that Smith’s next chapter in the NFL could involve a change of scenery — one that brings him back to the company of a former college teammate. The prospect of reuniting with a familiar face from his days at Tennessee is generating significant buzz in NFL circles, especially with the impending free agency period set to reshape rosters across the league.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Trey Smith’s journey, his time at Tennessee, his successful transition to the NFL, and what this potential reunion means for him and his new team.
Trey Smith’s Career at Tennessee
Trey Smith’s path to NFL stardom began in high school, where he was recognized as one of the best offensive linemen in the country. His decision to play for the Tennessee Volunteers was a significant one, as it allowed him to hone his skills at a Power Five school with a rich football tradition. During his time at Tennessee, Smith became a key leader on the offensive line, showcasing his exceptional abilities both in the run game and as a pass blocker.
Smith’s tenure at Tennessee was marked by both success and adversity. He was initially seen as one of the top offensive linemen in college football, but his career was briefly interrupted by a health scare. Smith was diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs in 2018, which caused him to miss the majority of that season. Despite this setback, Smith returned to the field the following year, and his performance only improved as he gained more experience. His leadership and resilience were key attributes that helped elevate Tennessee’s offensive line during his final years with the team.
Over the course of his time at Tennessee, Smith earned numerous honors, including All-SEC and All-American selections. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him an incredibly valuable asset for the Vols, and he quickly became one of the most highly regarded offensive linemen in college football.
Transition to the NFL
After declaring for the 2021 NFL Draft, Smith was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the sixth round. Many analysts believed Smith’s draft stock had fallen due to his health history, but the Chiefs saw an opportunity to draft a player with immense upside. Smith quickly adjusted to the NFL level, finding a place on the Chiefs’ offensive line and becoming an important contributor in his rookie season.
In his first season with the Chiefs, Smith played in 16 games and started 14, showcasing his versatility and ability to protect one of the NFL’s most dynamic quarterbacks. His role in Kansas City’s offensive line was crucial as he helped create running lanes for star running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire and provided solid protection for Mahomes in the pocket. Smith’s ability to anchor the offensive line and shut down opposing defenders made him an immediate asset for the Chiefs’ high-powered offense.
Smith’s rookie campaign was a clear indication that he had the potential to develop into one of the NFL’s top offensive linemen. His combination of power and agility allowed him to excel both in pass protection and run blocking, and he quickly earned the trust of his coaches and teammates. Given his performance in 2021, many expected Smith to take another step forward in his second season and establish himself as a fixture on the Chiefs’ offensive front for years to come.
The Potential Reunion
Fast forward to 2025, and Trey Smith is now a prominent figure in the NFL. Although he has thrived with the Kansas City Chiefs, rumors are circulating that he may be set to reunite with a former Tennessee Vols teammate during this year’s free agency period. The NFL executive in question has stated that the reunion is not just a possibility but a highly likely outcome for Smith’s next move.
The identity of Smith’s former teammate has not yet been confirmed, but the speculation points to several prominent figures from Tennessee’s football program. The most likely candidate could be someone like Jarrett Guarantano, Tennessee’s former quarterback, or perhaps a fellow offensive lineman like Cade Mays, who has been a key player for the Volunteers. Either way, the reunion with a familiar face from his college days could have a major impact on Smith’s success moving forward.
The NFL is a business, and players often switch teams as part of the natural progression of their careers. For Smith, reuniting with a former teammate in free agency could provide several benefits. First, the two players will already have a strong rapport, which could lead to quicker integration into their new team’s system. Second, the familiarity between them could create a sense of camaraderie and comfort, both on and off the field.
Additionally, teams tend to value chemistry and continuity within their rosters, and the addition of a player who already has a built-in connection with another key contributor could make a big difference. Smith’s next team will no doubt be looking for offensive linemen who can protect their quarterbacks and open up running lanes, and Smith’s experience alongside a trusted former teammate could help establish that dynamic right away.
What This Means for Trey Smith’s Future
For Trey Smith, reuniting with a former college teammate could be the catalyst for an even brighter future in the NFL. Smith has already shown his ability to play at a high level, and having a trusted teammate by his side could make the transition to a new team smoother and more seamless.
As an offensive lineman, chemistry with other players is critical, and Smith has already developed a strong understanding of what it takes to succeed in the NFL. His performance with the Chiefs in his first two seasons has demonstrated that he has the tools to be a top-tier offensive lineman for years to come. Reuniting with a former Vols teammate will only add to his already impressive skill set, as he continues to grow and develop as a player in the NFL.
Smith’s leadership and versatility make him an attractive prospect for teams in need of a strong presence on the offensive line. Whether he remains with the Chiefs or moves to another team, his impact in the NFL will continue to be significant. The potential reunion with a former college teammate could help him make an even greater impact, both on and off the field, as he continues his journey in professional football.