Grading Chiefs’ pick of Tennessee offensive lineman Trey Smith at 226 – Arrowhead Pride

With the 226th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs took Tennessee offensive lineman Trey Smith. We have insta-grades from the three members of the Arrowhead Pride Nerd Squad.

Kent: Smith is another very highly-regarded prospect on which the the Chiefs have taken a swing. In the past, there have been medical issues — blood clots were detected in Smith’s lungs — so I would imagine the medicals pushed him down a little bit. There are high-level moments (and some impressive finishes) on tape. There is some stiffness through his frame — and he struggles operating in space and at the second level. In our rankings, we were lower on him than some others (he was at 176) but this is good value for him. If they can get him to play up to his high-level plays more consistently, the Chiefs have a solid player on their hands. A nice Day 3 swing.

Grade: A

Craig: Smith is a player who got early Round 2 love — and before the start of the 2020 NCAA season, he was projected to be one of the first interior offensive linemen taken in the draft. An “okay” year and some medical concerns pushed him well down the board, but the talent is undeniable. So the Chiefs take another late flyer on a player who has a good ceiling. If his health holds up during his rookie deal, Smith could be another cheap starter along the Chiefs offensive line. It’s a worthy gamble.

Grade: A

Matt: At this point in the draft, landing a former five-star recruit with the ceiling that Smith possesses is absolutely outstanding. There are medical concerns which absolutely led to him falling to late on Day 3 — but this swing is a no brainer. On the field, Smith is an experienced player — with time at both tackle and guard — who has some of the most impressive reps you will ever see, including exploding off the line of scrimmage and destroying anyone in his path. Then you can find some reps with poor technique — or a lack of awareness that such an experienced player shouldn’t have. The inconsistencies are maddening, but that’s what NFL offensive line coaches are paid to fix.

Grade: A