The 2024 NFL season promises new excitement as the salary cap hits a staggering $255.4 million. It outscored last year’s mark by $30 million. This unexpected gain provides teams such as the Kansas City Chiefs with room for flexibility in negotiations.
Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach is aiming for a third consecutive Super Bowl victory, just like his quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. But the focus right now is on the defensive line. The defending champion’s All-Pro Chris Jones and cornerback L’Jarius Sneed are like star quarterbacks entering free agency, leaving fans wondering about the team’s defensive foundation.
What is Chiefs’ stance on Chris Jones?
Brett Veach wasted no time in expressing the Chiefs’ determination to keep Jones with the Chiefs. Speaking at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, Veach affirmed, “He’s at the top of the list,” via NFL.com.
The GM mentioned the mutual desire for the veteran to remain with the Chiefs. He indicated ongoing efforts to secure a deal that will ensure Jones finishes his career in Kansas City.
“I love Chris. Tried really hard to get something done, and we didn’t, but when we got together right after that Detroit game, we had a great talk. Both parties, I think, want to be here, so we’ll get to work. That’s certainly a guy we want back and love and want to see him finish his career here in Kansas City.”
Chiefs GM Brett Veach says re-signing Chris Jones is "at the top" of team's to-do list (via @TheNickShook) https://t.co/mVI0eZUKy6 pic.twitter.com/6UxeGcthbI
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) February 27, 2024
That’s a hefty price tag for Jones, coming in at $22.1 million. His presence on the Chiefs’ defense in the 2023 season was like a game-changing interception. The defensive lineman’s relentless performance on the field stood out, with 10.5 sacks and numerous game-changing plays.
He led the Chiefs defense to soar to new heights with 0.5 sacks, one forced fumble, eight tackles, two pass breakups, and six quarterback hits in six games. He scored a touchdown with his performance, earning him first-team All-Pro honors.
Navigating the journey to solidify Chrus Jones’ future with the Chiefs has been a bit of a game, with contract negotiations playing out since before the 2023 season. It led to a temporary truce that allowed the footballer to return to the field following his absence from the season opener.
However, his unwavering commitment to the Chiefs was evident during their Super Bowl parade when he declared, “I ain’t going nowhere, baby.”
Will L’Jarius Sneed be Franchise tagged?
According to NFL expert Matt Verderame, there’s a strong likelihood that the Chiefs will choose to franchise tag Sneed, estimating it at 75–80%. Nevertheless, this call carries a hefty price, estimated at $19 million.
𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: There’s a 75-80% chance that the #Chiefs franchise tag CB L’Jarius Sneed, per @MattVerderame
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 27, 2024
A tag for Sneed would cost about $19 million.
To tag Jones would cost the Chiefs more than $32 million against their salary cap. https://t.co/swKaOmhgh1 pic.twitter.com/KM8S7lsZXo
Recent reports from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler suggest that the Chiefs are prepared to use the franchise tag on Sneed. It’s like being open to receiving trade offers if a long-term deal isn’t sealed. Sneed is like a quarterback reading the defense, open to exploring other opportunities while weighing the Chiefs’ offer.
Sneed’s performance in the 2023 season is like a game-winning touchdown, showcasing his immense value to the Chiefs. He demonstrated his dominance on the field with two interceptions, 14 pass breakups, 78 tackles, five tackles for loss, one fumble recovery, and three quarterback hits over 16 games.
His postseason performance was like a star quarterback leading his team to victory, making three crucial interceptions, forcing a game-changing fumble, and racking up 17 tackles in just four games.
