CHIEFS CORNERBACK’S FUTURE IN QUESTION AFTER SUPER BOWL WIN
After securing back-to-back Super Bowl victories, the Kansas City Chiefs now face the challenging task of making tough decisions in the offseason. One of the key dilemmas they must address is whether they can afford to keep cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, who is expected to command a hefty four-year, $65 million contract. With limited cap space and other free agents to consider, the Chiefs may have to choose between retaining Sneed or prioritizing superstar defensive tackle Chris Jones.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler suggests that re-signing both Jones and Sneed may be too ambitious for Kansas City. In order to maintain a strong pass rush, the Chiefs may need to focus on securing Jones and potentially parting ways with Sneed. However, losing Sneed would not be a setback for long, as NFL insider Matt Bowen predicts that he could find a new home with the Philadelphia Eagles, a team led by Travis Kelce’s brother.
Sneed’s impressive performance this season, leading the Chiefs in interceptions and passes defensed, has garnered attention from teams in need of a veteran cornerback. Bowen believes that Sneed’s skills and ability to thrive in Vic Fangio’s defensive system make him an attractive target for the Eagles, who are looking to upgrade their cornerback position.
While Sneed hopes to remain with the Chiefs and pursue a third consecutive Super Bowl victory, he understands the business side of the NFL. At 27 years old, this offseason presents his best opportunity to secure a lucrative contract. Speaking on “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams, Sneed made his intentions clear, stating, “Pay me. Pay me. That’s what I’ve got to say. Pay me.” He remains hopeful that he can continue to contribute to the Chiefs’ success but acknowledges that the decision ultimately lies with the team’s general manager, Brett Veach.
Veach faces a challenging task as he weighs the options between Sneed and Jones. The Chiefs have 19 unrestricted free agents and limited cap space, making it impossible to retain everyone. Sneed recognizes the reality of the situation, stating, “They can’t keep both of us.” Ultimately, the fate of Sneed’s future with the Chiefs remains uncertain, but the possibility of joining a fellow Super Bowl contender like the Eagles provides a solid backup plan.
In other news, the Chiefs have exercised their option on All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones’ contract, ensuring that they retain the right to franchise tag him. Jones is set to receive $4.25 million in incentives.
Kansas City Chiefs Retain Chris Jones, But Will They Be Able to Keep Him Long-Term?
In a recent report by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, it was revealed that the Kansas City Chiefs have picked up the option on Chris Jones’ contract. This move allows them to retain the right to franchise tag him and pay him the $4.25 million he earned in incentives. However, this decision was merely a formality, as Jones was due the money regardless. If not tagged, he will become a free agent.
Looking ahead, Jones is predicted to earn a lucrative three-year, $85.4 million contract as a free agent. The cost of placing the franchise tag on him would be approximately $32 million. Despite the financial implications on the team’s salary cap, ESPN’s Dan Graziano believes that Jones, who is considered the Chiefs’ second-most important player, will ultimately stay with the team.
Graziano expressed his opinion, stating, “I can’t help but think they need to find a way to keep him there his whole career. I’m never going to tell a guy not to go get his money, and if Jones wants to maximize his contract elsewhere, good for him. However, he is currently playing at a Hall of Fame caliber in Kansas City, and it would be beneficial if the Chiefs and Jones could come to an agreement to keep this success going.”
As the offseason progresses, the future of Chris Jones with the Kansas City Chiefs remains uncertain. Will the team be able to negotiate a long-term contract that satisfies both parties? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
According to the Source heavy.com