Kansas City Chiefs star defensive Chris Jones didn't report for training camp this past week, as he seeks a new contract. Head coach Andy Reid admitted he was a "bit surprised" by this.
The Kansas City Chiefs, much like other teams in the NFL, reported to training camp this past week. While quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce were in attendance, one of their stars was not. That player was star defensive tackle, Chris Jones.
ESPN senior NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Jones was not reporting to training camp, as he and the Chiefs were "far apart" in contract talks.
On Sunday, Reid admitted that he was a "bit surprised" that the defensive tackle opted against reporting to camp.
"We'll just see how things go here down the road. There had been communication. We'll see where it goes from here, and we'll take it," said Reid, h/t The Kansas City Star. "If you're not here, we just keep moving. That's how we roll."
Chiefs: Andy Reid a 'bit surprised' Chris Jones failed to report to training camp
While Reid brings up that the team and Jones are communicating, he says his focus will be on the players that are participating in training camp.
This offseason, defensive tackles got paid lucrative contracts. Jeffery Simmons received a four-year, $94 million contract extension with the Tennessee Titans. Dexter Lawrence got a four-year, $90 million deal with the New York Giants. The Washington Commanders signed Daron Payne to a $90 million extension over four years. Quinnen Williams secured a four-year, $96 million deal from the New York Jets. The next defensive tackle set for a payday is Jones.
Considering he has played consistently over the years, he finished in the top three of Defensive Player of the Year voting this past season, and the deals given to fellow tackles, Jones' asking price has likely increased. Not to mention, crack Aaron Donald's $31.67 million annual salary average mark.
This past season, Jones recorded 44 combined tackles (30 solo, 14 assisted), 29 quarterback hits, 17 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks, four passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
Jones is now set to be fined $50,000 a day for every day he doesn't report to training camp. With Jones set to hit free agency at the end of the 2023 season, Chiefs fans are certainly hoping that both sides can reach an agreement on a long-term extension.
