Signs point toward Chiefs re-signing DT Chris Jones

Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones.

It appears the Kansas City Chiefs are leaning toward keeping defensive tackle Chris Jones.

“Yeah, listen, I think [general manager Brett] Veach has said it before — we’d love to have him back,” Kansas City head coach Andy Reid said in his Tuesday news conference. “They’ve just got to work all that out. But I think the effort will be there probably on both parts to try to get something done.”

During a Monday appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter indicated he also expects Kansas City and the 29-year-old to agree to a new deal this offseason.

Arguably the second-best DT in the NFL behind Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald, Jones is one reason the Chiefs captured their third title in five years. He had 10.5 sacks, 39 pressures and 29 QB hits in 16 games, earning his fifth Pro Bowl nod.

Spotrac estimates the Chiefs will have $22.63M in cap space. They must create more room to accommodate a new deal for Jones.

His market value is a three-year deal worth $28.4M annually. While the team could franchise tag him again, that would also devour cap room. It would be the largest tag ($32.16M) for a non-QB in league history, per CBS Sports contributor and former sports agent Joel Corry.

The Chiefs can still make it happen, though. CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones reported they’re expected to restructure quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract, saving $37M. The 28-year-old will probably oblige to keep the roster intact, which could help the team three-peat as Super Bowl champions.

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