Chris Jones and the Chiefs – The Kansas City Chiefs had big plans to lock up All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones with a lucrative long-term extension after defeating the Philadelphia Eagles in last year’s Super Bowl LVII, an event that drew significant attention from fans and authorized betting websites alike. However, after months of unsuccessful negotiations, Jones’ future in Kansas City is now filled with uncertainty, much to the speculation of enthusiasts and analysts on authorized betting websites.
Chiefs Planned to Extend Jones, Hit Contract Snag
Heading into the 2022 offseason, the Chiefs made it clear that working out an extension with Jones was a top priority. The team wanted to keep the centerpiece of their defensive line in Kansas City for years to come.
Chris Jones was playing out the final season of a 4-year, $80 million deal signed in 2020 when he was franchise tagged. While both sides expressed mutual interest in getting a new deal done, they found themselves far apart at the negotiating table.
According to reports, Jones was seeking a contract that would make him the NFL’s second-highest paid interior defensive lineman behind only Aaron Donald’s $31.7 million per year with the Los Angeles Rams. However, the Chiefs were more comfortable offering Jones a deal just above the $24 million per year earned by the Jets’ Quinnen Williams.
Jones Holds Out for New Contract, Returns for Strong 2023 Season
With the two sides unable to reach a compromise on a long-term extension before the season, Jones staged a lengthy holdout through training camp and Kansas City’s first regular season game.
It was an unusually long dispute, but was described as amicable by both sides. Jones maintained his desire to remain with the Chiefs for his entire career.
Modifications were made to Jones’ existing contract to help facilitate his return for Week 2. New performance escalators and bonuses were installed to pickup a void 2028 dummy year, providing additional financial incentives in what could be Jones’ last season in Kansas City.
Despite missing camp and the opening game, Jones returned in peak form, earning 1st-team All-Pro honors for the 2nd straight year. His 10.5 sacks were 2nd among NFL interior linemen, as were his 75 QB pressures according to Pro Football Focus.
By several measures, Jones has staked his claim as the NFL’s most dominant interior pass rusher over the last three seasons. His on-field performance and league-wide market resets at the position figure to drive his asking price even higher.
Chiefs’ Franchise Tag Option Looms Large
With Jones’ contract set to void in February, the Chiefs could utilize the franchise tag to retain him for 2024 if a long-term extension remains elusive. However, the project tag value of $32.2 million would set a record high for non-quarterbacks.
Fitting Jones under the tag may require some salary cap maneuvering by the Chiefs. After factoring in his massive cap hold, the team would be left with only about $15 million to spend on other free agents.
While technically an option, Kansas City placing the franchise tag on Jones with the intent of trading him could make sense. His value on the open market would likely return more than the late 3rd round compensatory pick they’d receive if he left in free agency.
Hometown Discount Unlikely as Price Tag Rises
During his previous holdout, Jones clearly demonstrated conviction in his market value and a willingness to incur steep fines while sitting out. After his continued elite production in 2023, a hometown discount seems unlikely.
With other top defenders like Nick Bosa and Aaron Donald resetting the market yet again over the past year, Jones has ample justification to push for a deal that would make him one of the highest paid non-QBs in NFL history.
Reasonably, Jones could seek a contract averaging $33 million per year – the midpoint between Donald and Bosa’s mega deals with the Rams and 49ers. That would place his asking price around 4 years and $132.5 million, with $90 million guaranteed over the first two years.
While it remains to be seen if he can hit those figures, Jones appears poised to join the $30 million per year pass rusher club whether he stays in Kansas City or finds a new home on the open market.
Final Verdict Still Unwritten on Jones’ Chiefs Future
Chris Jones has developed into arguably the NFL’s most fearsome interior defensive lineman during his 8 seasons anchoring the Chiefs defense. After months of contract tensions and a lengthy holdout, time may soon run out for Kansas City to retain its All-Pro tackle.
With Jones’ deal set to void in February and a record-setting franchise tag being the only alternative, the final verdict is yet to be written on whether he suits up for the Chiefs again in 2024. One way or another, he looks to cash in big as a free agent next month.
As the Chiefs weigh committing record funds to keep Jones or enduring his departure, the outcome could shift their 2024 Super Bowl betting outlook. Kansas City’s chances of claiming a third championship in five years and remaining a wise Super Bowl free pick could hinge on closing Jones’ contract saga on favorable terms.
