Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs

As the Kansas City Chiefs enter the most critical stretch of their NFL season—fighting for a top seed in the AFC and a smooth path to the playoffs—they’ve been hit with a significant blow: tight end Noah Gray and offensive lineman Trey Smith are both likely to miss upcoming games due to injuries. Multiple sources close to the team have reported that Gray is dealing with a Grade 1 MCL sprain sustained in Week 15 against the Las Vegas Raiders, while Smith is recovering from a high ankle sprain suffered in the same game. For a Chiefs offense that relies on continuity and depth, the absence of two key contributors couldn’t come at a worse time, forcing coaches to scramble for replacements and adjust game plans on the fly. Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs explores the details of their injuries, the impact on the Chiefs’ offense, and how the team plans to adapt without them.

Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs begins with a breakdown of the injuries that have sidelined Gray and Smith, and the timeline for their potential return. Gray, the Chiefs’ second-string tight end, was injured in the third quarter of the Raiders game when he was hit while blocking on a running play, twisting his knee awkwardly. Initial MRI results confirmed a mild MCL sprain, with team doctors estimating a recovery time of 2–3 weeks—meaning he could miss the final two regular-season games and potentially the first round of the playoffs if the Chiefs secure a bye. Smith, a starting right guard and a anchor of the offensive line, suffered his ankle injury in the fourth quarter while blocking for a Patrick Mahomes scramble. Though his injury is not season-ending, high ankle sprains typically require 3–4 weeks of recovery, putting his availability for the regular-season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals in doubt. “Both guys are tough, and they want to be out there,” said Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. “But we have to do what’s best for their long-term health. Rushing them back could make the injuries worse, and we need them at full strength for the playoffs.”

Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs delves into the unique roles Gray and Smith play in the Chiefs’ offense, and why their absence will be felt beyond just their positions. Gray, though a backup to Travis Kelce, has been a critical “swiss army knife” for the offense—lining up as a tight end, slot receiver, and even fullback in short-yardage situations. He’s caught 28 passes for 256 yards and 3 touchdowns this season, but his biggest value comes in blocking: he’s graded as the Chiefs’ second-best run-blocking tight end by Pro Football Focus, helping spring running back Isiah Pacheco for multiple long gains. Smith, meanwhile, has been a rock on the offensive line, starting all 15 games at right guard and allowing just 1.5 sacks all season. His ability to hold off pass rushers and create lanes in the run game has been vital, especially with the Chiefs’ offensive line dealing with injuries to other players earlier in the season. “Noah and Trey aren’t just role players—they’re guys we count on to execute key parts of our offense,” said offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. “Gray’s versatility lets us run different formations, and Smith’s consistency keeps our line steady. Losing both at once is a big challenge.”

Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs examines how the Kansas City Chiefs plan to replace Gray at tight end, and the adjustments that will be needed. With Gray sidelined, the Chiefs will turn to third-string tight end Jody Fortson and practice squad call-up Blake Bell to fill the void. Fortson, a 6-foot-6 veteran, has limited regular-season experience but has impressed in practice with his blocking ability—something the Chiefs will need to maintain their run game. Bell, meanwhile, is a journeyman tight end with experience in Andy Reid’s offense from his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, giving him a leg up in learning the playbook quickly. The Chiefs may also shift their formation to use more “11 personnel” (one tight end, one running back, three wide receivers) to reduce the need for a second tight end, relying on wide receivers like Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore to line up in the slot and handle some blocking duties. “We have guys who can step in, but it’s about getting them comfortable with the reps,” Nagy said. “Fortson has the size to block, and Bell knows our system—we just need to get them ready fast.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, replacing Gray’s versatility won’t be easy, but the team is banking on its depth and Reid’s ability to adapt to keep the offense on track.

Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs explores the challenges of replacing Trey Smith on the offensive line, and how it could impact Patrick Mahomes and the run game. With Smith out, the Chiefs will likely move backup offensive lineman Nick Allegretti to right guard, where he has played sparingly in recent seasons. Allegretti is a reliable interior lineman but lacks Smith’s size and strength in run blocking—something that could hinder Pacheco’s ability to find holes on the right side of the line. The Chiefs may also adjust their run game to focus more on the left side, where left guard Joe Thuney and left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. form a more experienced duo. In pass protection, Allegretti will need to step up quickly, as opposing defenses are sure to target the new right guard with blitzes and stunts. “Smith is one of our best pass blockers, so replacing him will require everyone on the line to communicate better,” said offensive line coach Andy Heck. “Allegretti is a smart player, but he’ll need help from the tackles and center to handle the pressure. We’ll be working extra reps this week to make sure the line stays cohesive.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, protecting Mahomes is paramount, and any breakdown on the offensive line could lead to more sacks and turnovers—something the team can’t afford in a tight playoff race.

Noah Gray and Trey Smith Likely Out for Kansas City Chiefs wraps up with why the absence of Gray and Smith is a critical test for the Kansas City Chiefs, and what it means for their playoff aspirations. With just two regular-season games left, the Chiefs are in a tight battle with the Baltimore Ravens for the top seed in the AFC— a seed that would give them a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Losing two key contributors could make it harder to win those games, potentially forcing the Chiefs into a lower seed and a more difficult playoff path. But there’s also an opportunity here: the Chiefs’ ability to adapt to injuries and get production from backup players will show just how deep and resilient they are—a trait that championship teams need. “Injuries are part of the NFL, and every team deals with them,” Reid said. “The question is how you respond. We have the talent and the coaching staff to adjust, and this is a chance for some guys to step up and show what they can do.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, the next few weeks will be a test of their depth and resolve. If Fortson, Bell, and Allegretti can fill the gaps left by Gray and Smith, the Chiefs could still be in position to make a deep playoff run. If not, the injuries could end up being a deciding factor in their quest for another Super Bowl title.