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In the midst of the Kansas City Chiefs‘ training camp, the focal point of attention remains the absence of star defensive tackle Chris Jones due to a holdout.
Chris Jones has racked up $1 million in training camp fines so far, according to Sports Illustrated Matt Verderame.
Speculations about a potential trade have circulated, but Chiefs’ General Manager Brett Veach has now weighed in, dismissing any such notions.
Veach’s remarks came during an interview with The Athletic’s Nate Taylor on Wednesday, where he asserted that the Chiefs have no intentions of parting ways with Jones.
“We have no intentions of trading Chris,” Veach affirmed, underlining Jones’ significance to the team. He further emphasized Jones’ high priority status since the offseason’s commencement.
The ongoing situation has been influenced by various factors unique to this year’s training camp. Veach touched upon the late contract negotiations with other players in Jones’ position group, contributing to a “Natural holding pattern.”
The Chiefs remain committed to resolving this situation and retaining Jones as a vital asset to their defense.
As Jones enters the final year of his four-year, $80 million contract, his desire for an extension has been a driving force behind the holdout.
Taylor reports that Jones is seeking a contract extension that would position him as one of the top-paid players in his position across the league.
The bar is currently set by Los Angeles Rams’ Aaron Donald, who inked a three-year, $95 million restructured contract last year. Additionally, New York Jets’ Quinnen Williams recently signed a four-year, $96 million extension, securing the second-highest-paid spot in the position.
Veach acknowledged the ongoing negotiations, stating, “We’re continuing to work to see if we can get something done.”
In the midst of the preseason preparations, the Chiefs’ management remains focused on securing Chris Jones’ long-term commitment and contribution to the team’s defensive prowess.