KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Chiefs reunited with offensive tackle Donovan Smith on a one-year deal, sources told ESPN. His return as Mahomes’ shield fuels Kansas City’s Super Bowl LX chase amid fierce competition.
Smith, 32, signed for $3.5 million, per NFL.com. His 2023 stint—12 starts, 5 sacks allowed—bolstered Super Bowl LVIII’s win, protecting Mahomes’ 4,159-yard campaign, per Pro-Football-Reference.
Sidelined by a 2024 hip injury, Smith’s UFA status ended with this reunion. His experience fortifies a line with Jaylon Moore, countering Super Bowl LIX’s 40-22 loss, per Arrowhead Pride.
Smith’s pass protection, graded 57.8 by PFF in 2023, anchors Mahomes’ pocket. Facing Wanya Morris and Kingsley Suamataia, he’s the veteran cornerstone, per The Kansas City Star.
Chiefs Kingdom roared: “Donovan’s back to protect Pat!” per local reports. His return ignites hope, despite $11.2 million cap space limiting roster moves, per Spotrac.
The AFC West, with Denver’s resurgence, looms as a tempest. Smith’s shield bolsters Mahomes against rivals like the Chargers in Brazil’s opener, per Chiefs.com.
Andy Reid praised Smith: “He’s our rock.” His leadership guides rookies like Josh Simmons, fortifying Kansas City’s title quest, per ESPN’s Jeffri Chadiha.
As training camp nears, Smith’s reunion fuels dreams. Can he lead the Chiefs through the storm to glory? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates!
