Chiefs Star Chris Jones Reveals Surprise Reason He Cries During National Anthem

Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones will likely be seen crying during the national anthem before the Super Bowl on Sunday, just as he was for the first two rounds of the NFL playoffs.

The Chiefs star explained this week that he isn't getting emotional or overwhelmed with patriotism -- he's getting ready for battle.

Jones has gained a reputation for growing teary-eyed during the national anthem, with his display getting significant airtime prior to the AFC championship game and many more sharing the clips on social media. Speaking to reporters in the days before the Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2025 Super Bowl, Jones explained that he's putting himself into the proper state of mind before a game.

“Quick story. I was watching the movie ‘300.’ One of my favorite movies, you know? Right before they go into battle, you have some like, crying, because they’re so mad. They’re going to war,” Jones told reporters, via The Associated Press. “In a sense of playing football, I actually go into that mindframe, like, I might not make it home tonight — knowing I’m going to make it home, but knowing I’m going to war. It’s going to get bloody. It’s going to get physical. I might not make it out. I might make it out.