Throughout the majority of the 2023 NFL offseason, all eyes were on a serious contract situation between star defensive tackle Chris Jones and the Kansas City Chiefs. After going through a long holdout, the two sides were able to work out a deal to get him back on the field. While it has been great for the team to have him back, they could be working on borrowed team with their defensive star.
Jones is set to hit free agency in the offseason and the Chiefs may not be able to re-sign him. It is very possible that another team could swoop in and steal him away from Kansas City.
In a recent quote, Jones talked about his NFL future. What he said caused major concern for many Chiefs’ fans.
“I never really take it personal, man,” Jones told Smith of contract talks. “The business is the business aspect of it, man. It’s a tough business. It’s a cutthroat business and you can’t get too involved with your feelings about it. If we’re speaking truthfully, this could be my last year with the Chiefs.”
Chris Jones, on how this could be his last season with the #Chiefs. He talks about how he would feel if it is, but what he hopes happens. #ChiefsKingdom 🎥: NFL on NBC pic.twitter.com/gsjbgCzGze
— Starcade Media (@StarcadeMediaKC) December 1, 2023
Chris Jones Has Been An Integral Piece For Chiefs’ Dynasty
Since the Chiefs took the NFL by storm and became a yearly Super Bowl favorite, Jones has been a huge part of the process. He has anchored the defense and constantly made huge plays. Losing that kind of impact player would be a major setback for Kansas City.
Since returning from his holdout, Jones has shown why he was missed so greatly. He has picked up right where he left off from last season.
In 10 games played, Jones has racked up 24 total tackles to go along with 7.5 sacks and three defended passes. Even when he hasn’t stuffed the stat sheet, his presence has been tough for opposing offensive lines to game-plan against. That kind of impact cannot be understated.
If Jones does hit the open free agency market, the Chiefs are going to have a hard time bringing him back. There will be a long list of potential suitors. It is very rare for a player of Jones’ caliber to come available.
Expect to continue hearing rumors surrounding the Chiefs and Jones. His future in Kansas City may be murky, but Kansas City will need him at his best in order to win another Super Bowl this season.