'He's turned into being a real positive leader out there' – Andy Reid on the growing maturity of Chiefs defensive star
Star defensive tackle Chris Jones is the heart and soul of the Kansas City Chiefs defense. That is why the Chiefs signed him to a blockbuster five-year, $158.75 million contract last offseason. The early returns on that decision have been great, as Jones was selected as a First-Team All-Pro in 2024. Jones didn't light up […]
Star defensive tackle Chris Jones is the heart and soul of the Kansas City Chiefs defense.
That is why the Chiefs signed him to a blockbuster five-year, $158.75 million contract last offseason. The early returns on that decision have been great, as Jones was selected as a First-Team All-Pro in 2024.
Jones didn't light up the stat sheet this season, recording 37 total tackles, five sacks, 38 quarterback pressures, and one forced fumble. That's not bad by any means, but aren't the gaudy numbers that he's posted in previous seasons.
The reason for that is because of the amount of double, and even triple teams that he faces week in and week out. Everyone knows by now how great Jones is on the field, but according to coach Andy Reid, Jones has come a long way off the field. While joining The Pat McAfee Show on Wednesday, Reid talked about how much Jones has matured over the years.
"He's one of those kind of guys that just goes, and he's got that pass rush ability," Reid said. "He's a bigger human being than I think people realize. He's a big ole kid and loves to play. He's really developed into a leader over the years. He was a kind of a goofball when he was younger, but he's really turned into being a real positive leader out there, and I appreciate that part. He's an All-Pro player. You see him play every Sunday, and that's what he is."
Reid also discussed the emotion that Jones brings to the defense and plays with, including sometimes crying after big moments.
"Yeah, listen, that's real too," Reid said. "I mean, he gets fired up for it. I'm good with it. He can cry all he wants to cry. I love the kid. He's not crying when he's sacking the quarterback."
Kansas City definitely would not have won three Super Bowls in five years, or be going for a three-peat without Jones. When this historic run of Chiefs football comes to an end, Jones will be remembered as one of the invaluable pieces of the dynasty. He'll have another chance to add to his legacy when the Chiefs play the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX on February 9th.
