Chiefs Reportedly Plan to Use Franchise Tag on Star DL Chris Jones
By Scott Rogust
The Kansas City Chiefs are still riding high after they won their second-ever Super Bowl earlier this month. With a potential dynasty on the horizon, the Chiefs are getting a head start in keeping the band together.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported on Thursday that the Chiefs are placing the franchise tag on stud defensive tackle Chris Jones. The plan, of course, is to eventually sign him to a long-term deal.
The #Chiefs are going to franchise tag star DL Chris Jones, sources say. Not a surprise, but Kansas City views him in their long-term plans and hopes to get a deal done at some point. The window opens officially today.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 27, 2020
Jones has already stated he wants to stay with Kansas City. Who could blame him? This team has what it takes to compete for numerous Super Bowls, especially with Patrick Mahomes considering a team-friendly deal to make that happen.
Jones emerged as one of the best interior defensive lineman alongside Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams. If Jones, 25, is looking to be the highest paid player at his position, the Chiefs would have to top Donald's $22.5 million annual salary.
Report: Chiefs will use franchise tag on Chris Jones https://t.co/akWNjuiEvT
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) February 27, 2020
In his four seasons with the Chiefs, Jones has posted 136 total tackles, 72 quarterback hits, 33 sacks, seven forced fumbles and two interceptions.
Only time will tell if the two sides will be able to reach an agreement, but it's clear both the Chiefs and Jones want to make it happen.