GOOD NEWS’: Chiefs and All-Pro DT reach a five-year agreement with a huge guarantee….
With an arrangement with the Kansas City Chiefs disclosed on Saturday night, Jones’ agency, Katz Brothers Sports, became the highest-paid defensive lineman in NFL history for the three-time Super Bowl champion.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the agreement will guarantee Jones $95 million in compensation.
The first thing that might cross your mind is how the Chiefs are going to finance Jones’ massive contract. Over the Cap claims that Kansas City’s available cap space is a mere $1.2 million. But there are a few fast ways general manager Brett Veach can clear some space.
Cap space would become available if cornerback L’Jarius Sneed’s future was decided, whether through a trade or contract extension. According to rumors, quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ contract may be reworked, which may save the Chiefs $37 million.
It will be worthwhile for the Chiefs to retain Jones for the long term—possibly the finest DT in the NFL—regardless of how they make room for his salary.
Jones is savoring the winnings from his own wager.
The 29-year-old decided to return for the season on a restructured deal after skipping training camp and the team’s Week 1 loss against the Detroit Lions. He would later establish his value to the Chiefs.
Jones recorded 10.5 sacks in 16 games, making him an All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection in Kansas City’s subsequent Super Bowl season. His stellar year virtually guaranteed the bag, which finally arrived on Saturday.
Although Jones’s signing benefits both sides equally, it also removes the top-ranked defensive player from the market, effectively starting over in front of the NFL’s March 11 legal tampering period and the opening of free agency on March 13.