If Patrick Mahomes is the Kansas City Chiefs, then Chris Jones is the defensive guardian securing the team’s back line. Being drafted by the Chiefs back in 2017, Jones has been a key figure in the defense of the team. In 2020, the 28-year-old DT signed a four-year $80 million deal with the Chiefs. And in 2022, he was a key player in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVII victory. 

But last season, he probably had one of the best seasons of his career. This led to him wishing for a new contract that places his worth appropriately. The DT even missed minicamp and the Super Bowl ring celebration ceremony, as he continues to negotiate his contract with the Chiefs. But now, new details emerge that shine a light on the possible future of Chris Jones in the NFL.

What will the Chiefs do with Chris Jones?

Jones had a marvelous season in 2022. He racked up a career-high of 15.5 sacks, 29 QB hits, 17 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and four defended passes. And after such a scintillating performance in one of his best seasons, Jones will definitely be looking forward to negotiating a new contract with the Chiefs.

According to an article by Sports Illustrated, the Chiefs do not have any plausible reason to not finalize a deal with the DT at the earliest. Currently, he carries a $28 million cap hit for 2023. And the Chiefs have until the start of the NFL training camp to figure out a deal with the 28-year-old. But if they fail to do so and decide to franchise tag Jones, then there will be a $5 million surge in his cap hit, which would mean that his cap hit will be around $33 million then. 

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But the team is not too worried, as they are sure of Chris Jones continuing his NFL journey with the Chiefs. Even GM Brett Veach stated that he is feeling positive about negotiating a contract with the DT prior to the start of training camp. And even Jones opened up about finishing his career with the Chiefs. 

Jones wants to stay a Chief

Back in March, the DT opened up about how he wanted to retire from the same team where he started his NFL journey. He said that he “is a Chief for life” and “will not play for any other franchise.” As he enters the final year of his $80 million four-year deal, it will be interesting to see what kind of new contract the Chiefs offer to one of their key components in defense. Jones’ comment came after the Washington Commanders agreed to a four-year $90 million deal with their DT Daron Payne. So this may give the Chiefs an idea about how to proceed further with the negotiations with Jones.

Do you think the Chiefs will manage to retain the services of one of their best defensive player? Let us know in the comments below.

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