Glenn Coleman
Jul 25, 2023 - 05:30

The Chris Jones Holdout: Unveiling the Journey, Predicting the Future, and Analyzing its Impact on Super Bowl Champion Chiefs

Kansas City Chiefs' Chris Jones demands new deal in contract year.

The 2022 First-Team All-Pro and two-time Super Bowl champion, Chris Jones, is demanding a new deal as he enters a contract year with the Kansas City Chiefs. While there are other holdouts to monitor across the NFL, Jones is the most pivotal one for the Chiefs.

Jones, a 29-year-old defensive tackle, is the anchor of the Chiefs' defense and the only player on that side of the ball to earn a Pro Bowl selection. Despite the team investing in their offense, led by Patrick Mahomes, Jones has maintained a strong bill of health and continues to improve. He posted career-highs in sacks and quarterback pressures last season, helping the Chiefs win their second Super Bowl title in four years.

So why is Jones holding out? The market for defensive tackles has changed since he signed his current contract in 2020. At that time, he was one of the highest-paid players at his position. However, the market value has shifted, and Jones is now behind eight other defensive tackles in terms of average annual salary. This change in the market has given Jones leverage in his contract negotiations.

Jones' ask for a new deal comes at the right time. He is still on the right side of 30 and has anchored a Super Bowl-winning defensive front twice. His production and salary far exceed that of any other player on the Chiefs' defense. With Jones entering the final year of his contract, there is a strong case for the Chiefs to extend him before the start of the season.

While the Chiefs currently have limited cap space for 2023, they are projected to have significant cap room in the 2024 offseason. This gives them the opportunity to structure a new deal for Jones that works for their cap going forward. General manager Brett Veach has expressed confidence that a deal will eventually get done, and there is a lot of time before training camp for negotiations to take place.

It is in the best interest of both parties to come together and reach a new deal. Jones is a crucial leader on the Chiefs' defense, and his presence is invaluable both on and off the field. As long as negotiations remain positive, there is a strong likelihood that Jones will be with the Chiefs for years to come.