There’s a possibility that Sunday’s Super Bowl LVIII could be defensive lineman Chris Jones’ last game as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Jones is fully aware that it’s a possibility, too. However, he’s obviously not willing to say whether it is or isn’t. Right now, he’s just focused on winning his third championship ring.
“If it is, it is,” Jones said during a team press conference, via Aaron Ladd of KSHB 41. “If it’s not, it’s not. I haven’t really thought about it. I’m thinking about winning a Super Bowl.”
Is this Chris Jones’ last game with the #Chiefs?
“If it is, it is. If it’s not, it’s not. I haven’t really thought about it. I’m thinking about winning a Super Bowl” pic.twitter.com/Xthse2MyHE
— Aaron Ladd (@aaronladdtv) February 6, 2024
That’s the right mindset for a guy who is looking to solidify a potential hall of fame career this Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. A Super Bowl win would boost Jones’ resume in that regard, but it would also boost his resume for when it’s time to negotiate a new contract.
Jones is not signed with Kansas City past this season. There’s a chance the Chiefs place the franchise tag on him, but that would be expensive — possibly as high as $30 million or even more. Meanwhile, A to Z Sports projects Jones’ market value to be around $110 million over four years, equating to $27.5 million per year.
Coming off a 10.5-sack season and an impressive playoff performance, it seems reasonable for Jones draw such a big contract. But under general manager Brett Veach, the Chiefs have had a tendency to not sign players to long-term deals once they hit 30 years old. Jones will be 30 this summer.
Hence, why Super Bowl LVIII could be Jones’ last game as a Chief. He’ll be free to sign anywhere in March, barring the franchise tag. Will he stay, and chase more rings with Patrick Mahomes, or leave and chase a (well-deserved) bag?