This season was disappointing for the Kansas City Chiefs, as they fell from their previous high spot among the NFL‘s elite teams. With a late-season injury to quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce‘s retirement decision looming, many are wondering if this could be the end of a dynasty.
Another player who is a longtime member of the team’s successful runs in recent years is defensive tackle Chris Jones. The 31-year-old became a member of the Chiefs in 2016 and hasn’t looked back, achieving three Super Bowl rings alongside Mahomes and Kelce.
However, many individuals are wondering if, after 10 years, he might decide to move on to another team or pursue life away from playing football. With a game against the Las Vegas Raiders approaching, Jones was among those speaking at a team press conference on New Year’s Day.
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“That’s the plan. As long as they keep me here, I’m here,” he said, also responding to a question about whether he wants to remain part of the Chiefs.
“That’s always been a plan. You know, I admire Kobe Bryant for his longevity, his commitment to one organization, and how it shaped him as a player. So I always planned from the beginning to retire as a Chief,” Jones told reporters.
With a 6-10 record, the Chiefs ended up on the outside looking in for the playoff picture for the first time in Jones’s 10 years. Expectations failed, but that doesn’t appear to be holding Jones back from wanting to continue his career as part of the Chiefs.
Meanwhile, many individuals expect Travis Kelce to announce his retirement from the NFL once this season ends. That could arrive soon after their final game against the Raiders, or he might take time to reconsider his Chiefs career and add more championships.
Like Kelce, Jones has been a key contributor to Kansas City’s success, playing in no fewer than 13 games each season since entering the league in 2016. He’s racked up 310 combined tackles, 80.5 sacks, and two interceptions, one of which resulted in him getting a touchdown.
He doesn’t appear ready to leave. The Pro Bowl defensive tackle admitted this has been a season characterized by “adversity,” but he seems to embrace those opportunities and what they teach.
“I appreciate the challenges. You learn a lot about yourself when you have a lot of tough times,” he said regarding the past season, also indicating that the team will look to build momentum toward next season with Sunday’s game.
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