The Kansas City Chiefs have taken a significant step in addressing their offseason priorities by exercising an option in the contract of All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones. This decision not only guarantees Jones the $4.25 million he earned in incentives but also grants the Chiefs the option to place the franchise tag on him, as reported by NFL Media.
The move comes after a contract-related holdout by Jones that lasted for 51 days during the previous offseason. Although Jones did not secure a contract extension, he returned to the team with modifications to his deal, including incentives that allowed him to earn additional income in the 2023 season.
By exercising this option, the Chiefs have ensured their ability to retain Jones or utilize the franchise tag if a long-term agreement is not reached. The deadline for executing this option was within seven days after the Super Bowl.
Jones, expressing his commitment during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl parade, stated his desire to stay in Kansas City for a potential three-peat. As he approaches his 30th birthday in July, Jones is anticipated to sign a lucrative three-year, $85,450,884 contract, carrying an AAV of $28.4 million, based on Spotrac’s market value tool.
If realized, this contract would position Jones as the second-highest-paid defensive tackle, following Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams ($31.6M AAV), or the second-highest-paid defensive end/pass rusher, trailing Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers ($34M).
With the Chiefs holding the franchise-tag option for Jones, the situation remains noteworthy. The projected franchise tag for Jones stands at $32,169,912, accounting for the 120% of the prior year’s salary provisions associated with the designation, as per Corry.
Despite missing one game in 2023, Jones secured his second consecutive First-Team All-Pro selection and fifth straight Pro Bowl appearance. His impressive stats included 10.5 sacks, 29 QB hits, and 13 tackles for loss, contributing to his third Super Bowl ring.
