Chiefs’ HC Andy Reid gives ICY response on Chris Jones’ holdout, trusts GM Brett Veach to handle negotiations
Reid said they will focus on the next player if Jones continues to hold out
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Andy Reid comments on Chris Jones' contract situation. (Image via IMAGO)
The contract talks between the Kansas City Chiefs and Chris Jones have yet to reach a conclusion, and the defensive tackle looks set to hold out for as long as possible. Head Coach Andy Reid provided an update on the situation.
Jones, who won two Super Bowl rings during his time at Arrowhead, desires to become the best-paid defensive end in the NFL. The 29-year-old signed a four-year contract worth $80 million, with $60 million guaranteed, with the Chiefs in 2020. But he wants to earn something similar to what Rams Aaron Donald gets ($31.6 million a year, as per Spotrac).
Despite the Chiefs boasting one of the biggest salary cap spaces in the NFL, they have so far remained unwilling to meet Jones’ demands. As the regular season is only a week away, tension is rising among the players. Just ask Travis Kelce. But Andy Reid claims he will let General Manager Brett Veach handle all the negotiations.
“It’s an ongoing thing,” Reid said. “I let Brett do his job.”
The veteran coach added,” Some guys approach the situation in certain ways. Chris has chosen this route. Some other guys would get their deals done and come in and play.”
Meanwhile, they have chosen to keep the four-time Pro Bowler on the PUP list (Physically Unable to Perform). This means Jones will miss their Week 1 game against the “one heck of a” Detroit Lions team.
Andy Reid is focused on the next man as Chris Jones holds out
Jones was a no-show in either the training camps or the preseason games. His absence has created a gaping hole in the Chiefs’ defense, and they have to address it quickly. Andy Reid addressed the situation at the Friday press conference and made a point to focus on the depth of Kansas City’s defensive line.
“Yeah, so I would tell you that you move on,” he said, as per USA Today Sports. “When the player is not here, then the next guy is up and rolling. Chris is a great player, [but] we have other good players to fill the role of defensive tackle.”
Keeping that in mind, they traded for Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. He may not be the direct replacement for Jones, but he can definitely challenge for it. Besides, fourth-year veteran Tershawn Wharton is still on the active roster.
The Kansas City Chiefs have more than enough salary cap space to give Jones a new deal. Even if they do agree to $30 million per season, his cap hit will still be lower.
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Ishan Misra
(3023 Articles Published)