There aren’t many questions surrounding the Kansas City Chiefs as they move along in training camp. The defending Super Bowl champions have a very strong roster and should be among the contenders in the NFL once again.
The biggest thing looming over the franchise is when star defensive tackle Chris Jones may rejoin the team. Jones, who is unhappy with his current contract situation, has not been present at training camp as the sides attempt to work out a new deal.
No one knows when Jones may report or when a deal will get done. However, they certainly hope that it is soon and he is back with the team before the regular season gets underway. The Chiefs are set to host the Detroit Lions in the season opener on Thursday Night Football on September 7th.
It has been a major topic of discussion during camp to this point. One of the players who spoke about it recently was the Chiefs’ star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. He spoke very highly of his teammate in a transcript that was shared by the team courtesy of ProFootballTalk.
“I mean, that’s one of the guys that’s been a staple to this organization for a long time. So, hopefully, we get him back in camp as soon as possible.”
Jones has been integral to the team’s success in recent seasons as one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. He has made an All-Pro or Pro Bowl team in five straight seasons, cementing his status as a top performer in the league and presenting a strong case for a raise.
Last season, Jones recorded a career-high 15.5 sacks to go along with 17 tackles for loss, 29 quarterback hits and 46 total pressures. He didn’t slow down in the postseason, picking up 2.0 sacks, three tackles for loss and six quarterback hits in three games.
Given the boom that the defensive tackle market experienced this offseason, it is easy to understand why Jones is seeking a new deal. Mahomes, who is in line for a new contract of his own, understands the business side of things that Jones is going through.
“I talk to Chris, not necessarily about contract stuff,” Mahomes said. “That’s how I am about all things. I never talk about the contracts. I just talk about football, and how he’s doing. I mean he’s working out; he’s staying in shape. All of that will handle itself, and all I can do is just be supportive, be a teammate.”
Hopefully, the Chiefs and Jones can come to an agreement soon so that he can return to the team. If they have to play regular season games without him, their defense will struggle to replace his production.
