The deadline to sign franchise-tagged players to long-term deals around the NFL is Wednesday. While one big-name player likely won’t be extended, another one could be in line for a huge pay day.
After placing the franchise tag on Pro Bowl defensive lineman Chris Jones back in March, it looks like the Kansas City Chiefs are set to lock him up long term.
Chiefs nearing mega contract extension with Chris Jones
As the report notes, nothing is finalized at this point. But things certainly seem to be trending in that direction.
Jones, 26, has been a dominant pass-rushing defensive lineman in recent seasons. Since the start of the 2018 campaign, the Mississippi State product has recorded 49 quarterback hits, 27 tackles for loss and 24.5 sacks. He was one of the primary reasons Kansas City earned the title last season.
What might Chris Jones’ contract look like?
Fresh off giving Patrick Mahomes up to $500-plus million on his extension, the Chiefs are set to hand over even more cash.
It seems unlikely that Jones will match the $22.5 million Aaron Donald is earning on his deal with the Los Angeles Rams. Something close to that does make sense.
The Pro Bowler is set to earn $16.13 million under the franchise tag in 2020. Any extension will go far beyond that in terms of average annual salary.
NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport notes that the two sides are close to a four-year extension. At the very least, this should pay Jones $80-plus million in total cash.
Stay tuned.