Trey Smith has become a valuable piece of the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive attack since he stepped onto the gridiron in 2021. In his first four seasons, he has been to three Super Bowls and walked out the victor in two of them. The 2024 season was his best yet from a personal standpoint, as he earned his first Pro Bowl selection.
One of the more consistently reliable players on the team, Smith has quickly transitioned from a young star to a veteran. But when he first joined the team, that title was reserved for superstar tight end Travis Kelce. It is an encounter he remembers well to this day.
Smith Reveals Kelce’s Infectious Energy Made Lasting Impact
On the latest episode of the “New Heights” podcast, hosted by Kelce alongside his brother Jason Kelce, Smith made an appearance to talk about himself, Kansas City, and everything in between.
The conversation later turned to the first interactions between the two players, as the Philadelphia Eagles legend asked Smith about meeting his brother for the first time.
“Just crazy energy, bro,” Smith said.
As all three men broke into laughter, the description was as apt as it can get. Infectious with his charisma and personality, the league leader in career postseason receptions has become a key locker room voice, thanks to his energy, which extends beyond his contributions on the field.
“I was like, ‘He’s awful. I love this guy.'”
Smith then went into detail about a specific incident from his first game that he remembered. “The one thing that I love, it was early, it might have been against the Browns, it might have been my first game. You scored a touchdown, [and] I tackled you. I’m like slapping your helmet in the end zone, ’cause you’re just psycho, bro.”
For him, the energy Kelce brings to the team is undeniable and invaluable. His motivation to charge up the entire crew is something Smith can personally attest to, affecting the players around the three-time Super Bowl champion.
Kelce’s Kindness Stands Out Beyond the Energy
But there was something heartwarming that Smith had to offer about the usually boisterous Kelce.
“One thing I can speak about, especially as a sixth-round draft pick, young guy, was just how kind you were, bro, and you don’t have to be that way,” Smith added. “How you really care for people, and you’re not afraid to give out your heart. So I think that’s the part that stood out to me.”
Even with the incredible accolades and resume, it was the man behind the player that Smith resonated with, reiterating that the 35-year-old never cast him aside.
For a while, it looked like that energy might be leaving the Chiefs’ locker room this season. At the end of the year, after a brutal 40-22 defeat in Super Bowl 59, doubts about Kelce’s retirement came to the forefront of the league.
However, after taking his time, the tight end decided to return for the 2025 season, at the very least. Now, it’s going to be up to the Chiefs as a whole to ensure he rides into the sunset with his head held high.