Chiefs Star Chris Jones Gets Honest About Family Tragedy After Ravens Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paul White | Last updated Sep 29, 2025 10:08 AM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs played the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday in what was one of the most anticipated games of the season. But in the 24 hours leading up to the contest, the main focus was on anything but the matchup on the field.

Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones was added to the injury report late Saturday night with what was described as “personal” reasons, but it was later revealed that a close family member passed away and he was attending the funeral.

He still played against Baltimore, so afterwards he discussed what the sport and his teammates mean to him, telling reporters, “Those are my brothers. I love being around them… Football is my escape from reality.”

#Chiefs DT Chris Jones arrived at Arrowhead about a half hour before kickoff today. He was attending his aunt’s funeral in Mississippi.

“Football is my escape from reality… just have fun, be like a kid in the backyard again.” pic.twitter.com/f3cPbSUC40
— Marleah Campbell (@MarleahKCTV5) September 28, 2025

There have been several players who still suited up after a tragic event in their family, and these are usually the emotions they express about the game.

In the NBA, former Boston Celtics star Isaiah Thomas famously played a game one day after his sister’s death and had an incredible, emotional performance, scoring 33 points in her honor.

Jones didn’t have an impressive game in the box score, but his impact was felt as he helped hold the Ravens to a measly 13 points in a game that was essentially a must win for them.

Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson did go down with a hamstring injury, but exited the game down three scores in the second half, so it had little impact on the outcome.

The six-time All-Pro showed a lot of heart and determination by playing in a game where he was undoubtedly clouded mentally.

Jones is no stranger to battling through pain, but hopefully he never has to endure the kind he fought through against the Ravens ever again.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: