The Kansas City Chiefs have what seems like a million players to sign in free agency over the next month and a half. One of the major names is that of cornerback Sean Smith, who was terrific throughout his three-year pact with Kansas City.
Smith, 28, is perhaps the most polarizing of the free agents. Some folks want him at almost any cost because he makes such sweet music with rookie Marcus Peters. Others believe the Chiefs should let Smith walk and spend the money on other areas of the team, while drafting another corner or signing one to replace him.
In reality, Smith is going to be 29 years old in July. For a corner, that is getting into dangerous territory. Kansas City would be wise not to offer anything more than a four-year contract with the first three basically guaranteed. At the same time, realize that Smith is no longer the top corner on this team. Peters is taking over that role, so how much do you pay for his counterpart?
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It’s important to have two top corners, but can you lock in a high-end second corner for $6-7 million per year? Smith is likely to draw at least $10 million per year if not more. General manager John Dorsey could offer Smith a four-year deal for $40 million and $25 million guaranteed. That would keep the Chiefs from being stuck with him deep into his 30s, while also giving Smith a really nice guaranteed package.
Would you rather the Chiefs sign Smith to a large deal and keep the secondary together, or do you take the savings and invest elsewhere?