REPORT: Clear-Cut Favorite Emerges In The Race To Sign Chiefs Superstar Chris Jones

The Kansas City Chiefs defense was one of the best units in the NFL this season, highlighted by the play of Chris Jones.

Last year, the Pro Bowl defensive tackle ended his holdout after he and the Kansas City Chiefs agreed to a revised contract. He had a crazy year that will ensure he will get paid.

On Wednesday, he announced publicly that he’ll be back with the Chiefs in 2024, despite an expired contract.

DraftKings has set odds on Chris Jones’ next team, and while they expect him to return to the Kansas City Chiefs (-175), it is not a lock for him to be back.

Potential suitors include the Houston Texans (+750) and Chicago Bears (+850) followed by the Detroit Lions (10/1).

HENDERSON, NEVADA – FEBRUARY 06: Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs speaks to the media during Kansas City Chiefs media availability ahead of Super Bowl LVIII at Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa on February 06, 2024 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)

Jones is an elite defensive lineman and will want to receive a long-term deal after returning on a one-year contract with incentives for this past season.

He is likely going to seek a contract worth at least $30 million per year, which is in line with other star defenders such as 49ers’ defensive end Nick Bosa and Rams’ defensive tackle Aaron Donald.

The first step will be whether the Chiefs apply the franchise tag to Jones. If they do, it would cost the Chiefs $32.16 million for a one-year deal. If they tag him and hope to sign him to a long-term deal, $32.16 million becomes the starting point.

If he isn’t tagged, he gets a ticket to free agency and is more than likely gone.