With a 5-4 record in the AFC West, the Kansas City Chiefs are in an unfamiliar situation as they are outside the playoff race and sit eighth in their conference. These issues have arisen due to the Chiefs’ inconsistent offense and a dip in production from the defense. Though offensive problems have been tied to injuries and suspension, the defensive concerns have centered on veteran DT Chris Jones. However, since head coach Andy Reid publicly commented on Jones’ dip, the Chiefs’ higher-ups have taken notice and reacted.

Amid criticism from the Kansas City Chiefs’ head coach, Chris Jones shared a rather cryptic message on social media. The DT’s Instagram post highlighted how people tend to move on from things they love and care about. Responding to this ambiguous message, Tavia Hunt, the wife of Chiefs’ owner Clark Hunt, shared a heartfelt message for Jones.

“You are so loved and prayed over. Thankful for you and your heart,” Tavia Hunt commented.

Fostering a family-like culture across the franchise, Tavia Hunt has emerged as a voice of support for her players. Earlier in October, when Chris Jones’s aunt passed away, Hunt made a similar gesture. But despite these social media interactions, the numbers evidently highlight Jones’ shortcomings through the 2025-26 season.

Jones has tallied just 13 combined tackles and two sacks through nine games of the season, along with only eight quarterback pressures. Alarming numbers, as the three-time All-Pro defensive tackle is currently on pace for a career low in both categories since his rookie year in 2016. With this regression, the Chiefs’ pass-rushing defense has also suffered, registering 20 overall sacks, which places them tied for 19th with a 68.1 rating.

What did Coach Andy Reid say about Chris Jones?

With these declining numbers and wounds of the Buffalo Bills‘ loss from Week 9, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid was asked about Chris Jones and his performances in a press conference. The former Eagles HC didn’t beat around the bush and made clear demands of his veteran defensive tackle.

“I think we all need to do better. I would say that. Chris (Jones) is always striving to do better every day. That’s what has made him (Chris Jones) such a good player,” Reid said.

Further, Andy Reid justified his comments by highlighting how Jones remains the focus of opposition and is often “getting doubled.” Hence, the team needs the 31-year-old to “stay consistent” and work hard.

But with the Chiefs’ second half of the season kicking off against the division leaders, the Denver Broncos, making these adjustments is paramount. Another loss could seriously dent Kansas’ playoff hopes, as they would have a 5-5 record. However, in the bigger picture, this season’s failure could be the franchise’s next defining low after a defeat in the Super Bowl.