Without a doubt, quarterback Patrick Mahomes is the head of the Kansas City Chiefs offense. Chris Jones, a defensive tackle, has an equal impact on the Chiefs defense as quarterback Patrick Mahomes does on the offense.

To put it plainly, he’s a superstar. Their three Super Bowl victories in five seasons have been greatly attributed to the five-time Pro Bowl player.

The former Mississippi State player, 29, is expected to be a free agent with no restrictions. Last season, Chris Jones did in fact hold out for a new contract, but after Week 1, he finally agreed to a one-year agreement.

It’s obvious that the Chiefs must get him back. Take a look at Super Bowl LVIII’s conclusion from a few weeks ago. In overtime, his pressure on the 49ers’ third-down play deep in Kansas City territory prompted Brock Purdy to release the ball too soon. The San Francisco 49ers would have probably scored a touchdown on a walk-in if he hadn’t put pressure on Purdy.
 

Even though he has only ever had 2.5 sacks in the playoffs, he has had several plays like that throughout the years in pivotal situations. He’s been an extremely clutch player, and I think that’s something that everyone would agree on.

But the cost of a new contract is high. Jones deserves a large salary because he is still very much in his prime and one of the league’s greatest defensive players.

Kansas City may run out of salary room given how much of it is devoted to Patrick Mahomes and how many young defensive players need to sign contracts shortly.

However, general manager Brett Veach is focused on signing a new contract with Chris Jones, and there is increasing hope for the finest free agent available, according to a report from The Athletic.

This week saw the start of Jones’ retention race. Before March 11 at 11 a.m. CT, when representatives of unrestricted free agents can begin contract negotiations with any interested team, the Chiefs intend to accomplish just that. The Chiefs’ main objective, according to general manager Brett Veach, is to re-sign Jones.

According to the report, Jones is also looking for a contract that will pay him approximately $30 million annually over a number of years, with guarantees greater than the $80 million that TJ Watt has in his deal.

That is a high cost to incur. However, it seems obvious for a player of Jones’ caliber, given the current Super Bowl window while this core is still intact.