The Chiefs have made an interesting decision regarding defensive tackle Chris Jones’ future, signaling they want him to remain in Kansas City.
Per NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, Kansas City exercised the option on the 29-year-old’s contract, paying him $4.25M in incentives.
This move also grants the Chiefs the right to franchise tag him again, giving them more leverage in contract negotiations. If the Chiefs don’t re-sign or tag the two-time first-team All-Pro, he will enter free agency in March.
The Chiefs’ salary cap situation isn’t horrible, but it doesn’t leave room to spend. Spotrac estimates they will have $23.78M in cap room. Kansas City has 18 other unrestricted free agents this offseason.
Jones is in line for a colossal payday. According to Spotrac, his market value is a three-year deal worth $28.4M annually, second at his position.
Tagging a player helps a team avoid giving him a huge deal that devours room. That’s not the case with Jones, though. Franchising him will cost $32.16M for a one-year contract, the largest non-QB tag in league history, per CBS Sports contributor Joel Corry.
The Chiefs should find a way to pay him. Jones had 10.5 sacks in 16 regular-season games, and he’s a vital piece of a defense that finished second in the league in points allowed (17 PPG).
Creating more room will be challenging for the Chiefs, but it’s possible. CBS Sports Jonathan Jones recently reported the organization is expected to restructure quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract, saving $37M. This will help K.C. re-sign its best players, keeping its roster together. Next season, the Chiefs aim to become the first team to three-peat as Super Bowl champions.
