Chiefs Reportedly Expected to Retain Chris Jones for at Least 2020
By Michael Luciano
Chris Jones' ascension from toolsy but raw Mississippi State lineman to one of the game's premier interior pass rushers in just a few years has been a joy to watch unfold. According to the latest reports from Albert Breer, Chiefs fans can expect to continue watching him dominate in Kansas City red and white during the 2020 season.
Per the latest reports, Jones, a free agent this offseason, is expected to either sign a long-term contract with Kansas City, or play for them in 2020 under the franchise tag.
This week's MMQB column from @AlbertBreer:
— The MMQB (@theMMQB) February 17, 2020
? Saban on Tua
? A former coach on Philip Rivers
? Free agents who will get paid more than you think
? The All-32
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Jones has 24.5 sacks over his last 29 regular season games, and it was his interior penetration against an ironclad San Francisco 49ers offensive line that threw Jimmy Garoppolo off his game late in Super Bowl LIV.
The Chiefs could have problems bringing him back long-term given the looming Patrick Mahomes record-breaking contract, but this team is in prime position to repeat as champions, and letting Jones go would de-stabilize the entire defense.
Per source, the #Chiefs prefer to sign Chris Jones long-term, despite a tight cap situation.
— Matt Verderame (@MattVerderame) February 10, 2020
This is consistent with how they felt last offseason when the two sides traded numbers over the summer.
Here's everything you need to know about all options:https://t.co/4hX72iBur9
The salary cap makes it impossible for great teams to retain all their great players, but Jones is already one of the top five defensive linemen in the game, and you can't replace his production with a few veteran free agents and/or mid-round draft picks.
The impending Mahomes contract could make things challenging, but Brett Veach needs to find a way financially to keep No. 95 on Steve Spagnuolo's defensive line in Kansas City.