The Kansas City Chiefs have been a dominant force in the NFL for the past few years, thanks in large part to the contributions of defensive tackle Chris Jones. However, in the 2025 season, Jones seemed to have lost his edge and the entire defense suffered as a result. This has led to speculation about his future with the team and whether he still fits into head coach Andy Reid’s long-term plans. According to ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller, the Chiefs may be considering cutting ties with Jones and looking towards a new prospect in the upcoming draft.
Jones has been a key player for the Chiefs since he was drafted in 2016. His relentless intensity and dominant presence on the field have made him a fan favorite and a crucial part of the team’s success. However, in the 2025 season, Jones seemed to have lost his spark and the once formidable defense looked like a shadow of its former self. This has raised questions about whether Jones is still the right fit for the Chiefs and if it’s time for the team to move on.
ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller believes that the Chiefs may be considering cutting ties with Jones in the upcoming season. In his latest draft projection, Miller has predicted that the Chiefs will select Isiah Pacheco, a promising defensive tackle from Rutgers University. This projection has put Jones’ future with the team in doubt and has sparked a debate among fans and analysts alike.
While it may be difficult to imagine the Chiefs without Jones, it’s important to remember that football is a business and tough decisions have to be made. Jones’ performance in the 2025 season was not up to his usual standards and it’s understandable that the team may be looking for a fresh start. However, this does not diminish Jones’ contributions to the team over the years and he will always be remembered as a key player in the Chiefs’ success.
On the other hand, Isiah Pacheco has shown great potential in his college career and could be a valuable addition to the Chiefs’ defense. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 290 pounds, Pacheco has the size and strength to be a dominant force on the field. He also possesses impressive speed and agility, making him a versatile player who can excel in both run defense and pass rush.
If the Chiefs do decide to part ways with Jones and draft Pacheco, it could be a win-win situation for both parties. Jones will have the opportunity to find a new team where he can regain his form and continue to make an impact, while Pacheco will have the chance to learn from experienced players like Frank Clark and Tyrann Mathieu and develop into a top-tier defensive tackle.
It’s important to remember that the NFL is a constantly evolving league and teams must adapt to stay competitive. While it may be difficult to see a beloved player like Jones potentially leaving the team, it’s important to trust in the decisions made by the coaching staff and front office. The Chiefs have a history of making smart draft picks and building a strong team, and there’s no reason to doubt their choices now.
In conclusion, the Chiefs may be considering cutting ties with Chris Jones and drafting Isiah Pacheco in the upcoming season. While this may come as a shock to some fans, it’s important to trust in the team’s decisions and have faith in the future. Jones will always be remembered as a key player in the Chiefs’ success, but it may be time for the team to move on and look towards a new era of dominance.
