Star defensive lineman Chris Jones has been a staple of the Kansas City Chiefs‘ pass-rush since he joined the team as a second-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Should Chiefs general manager Brett Veach look to extend Jones’ contract during the 2026 offseason?
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Here’s a look at Jones’ current deal:
Chris Jones 2026 salary
Nov 23, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) reacts in the second half against the Indianapolis Colts at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
According to OverTheCap.com, Jones will receive a base salary of $19,000,000, plus a prorated signing bonus of $9,750,000, a roster bonus of $16,000,000, and a workout bonus of $100,000 in 2026.
With the numerous incentives added to his base salary, Jones’ cap number is set to be $44,850,000 next season, which will account for 15.2 percent of Kansas City’s cap space.
How much money could K.C. save in 2026 by extending Chris Jones?
Nov 21, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Chris Jones (95) comes to the sideline against the Dallas Cowboys before the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
OverTheCap projects that the Chiefs could save a whopping $27,040,000 in cap space by extending Jones’ contract during the 2026 offseason.
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Should Brett Veach extend Chris Jones’ contract?
Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive line coach Joe Cullen with defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) against the Buffalo Bills during the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Given that Jones saw his production dip in 2025, it seems unlikely that Veach will decide it is in Kansas City’s best interest to extend the star pass-rusher’s contract past its final season in 2028.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs cap space: Should Brett Veach extend Chris Jones in 2026?