Chris Jones embracing training camp as Chiefs eye three-peat: 'I think chasing history is all part of it'

Chris Jones was all smiles following Kansas City’s training camp practice on Sunday, his first one since 2022.

This time last year, the Chiefs’ defensive star was in the thick of a contract holdout with the club, which bled into the season opener. Jones eventually became the league’s richest interior defensive lineman and the Chiefs went on to win a second straight Super Bowl title as the result of an eventful 2023 campaign.

Jones, who turned 30 earlier this month, explained this offseason why he believes some breaks during training camp would be beneficial, calling for off days this summer but only with Andy Reid’s permission. After participating on Sunday, Jones maintained his position with the Chiefs head coach, albeit with a hint of witticism.

Jones jokingly said, “Listen, I just hope Coach Reid feels empathetic to the fact that turning 30 feels different.”

Jones’ participation clearly spells out his commitment to the club despite the offseason plea, but the five-time Pro Bowler went on to give a sensible explanation in regards to why he can use the off days, comparing his training camp work with that of tight end Travis Kelce.

“He said, “You know, I recently had a conversation where someone was comparing me and Travis. I pointed out that Travis’ job might seem easier than mine. After all, I grapple with 300 pounds every play, while Travis is usually up against 140 pounds when he’s catching the ball.”

I sincerely hope that Reid, with his incredible heart, might consider granting me a day or two off in the near future. We’ll discuss it and have more detailed conversations. Perhaps I need to arrange a private meeting with Brett Veach and discuss with my associate Clark Hunt. We are committed to resolving this situation.

Jones has just completed back-to-back All-Pro seasons, during which he achieved 10.5 sacks, put pressure on the quarterback 39 times, made 29 quarterback hits, and 13 tackles resulting in a loss in 2023. He led the NFL’s youngest defensive team through a challenging but victorious playoff round, culminating in him earning his third Super Bowl ring in five seasons. Remarkably, he managed to do this without attending the training camp prior to the most recent season.

Jones’ invaluable contribution to the Chiefs’ defense and his leadership in the ongoing dynasty are significant. This was evident when reporters asked him about his message to the team on the first day of camp.

Jones stated, “The team’s core values, I believe, are to be humble and stay hungry. These values are consistent every year. We approach every new year with humility and eagerness, understanding that it’s a fresh start. Our team from last year achieved our primary goal of winning a championship. This year, we’re facing new and exciting challenges. With many new members on our team, there are many different obstacles we must overcome and we’re looking forward to it.”

Kansas City will be looking to become the NFL’s first three-peat Super Bowl champions in 2024, an opportunity that comes once in a blue moon. Jones also has lofty goals for himself along with that endeavor, saying recently that he’s eyeing a 20-sack season in 2024.

Ultimately, Jones aims to leave a significant mark on football, not to mention his career in Kansas City. That’s why he’s determined to give his all during the challenging summer period.

“He mentioned, “I believe pursuing history is a significant aspect. Many retiring athletes express a desire to leave the sport in a better state than when they began. Achieving a three-peat and further enhancing the Kansas City Chiefs’ legacy would be a monumental achievement, not just for us, but for the NFL as well.”

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