Disgruntled Chiefs DL sends strong message on 2026 comeback

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Disgruntled Chiefs DL sends strong message on 2026 comeback

Originally posted on KansasCityHuddle | By Divyanshi Raj | Last updated Aug 5, 2026 10:53 AM ET

Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones is ready to turn the page after the team’s disappointing 2025 season. Jones expressed his frustration at Chiefs’ previous season ending early, but said that he was eager to get back on the field.

After Saturday’s training camp practice at Missouri Western State University, Jones called it one of the “longest” offseasons of his Chiefs career. But he said the extra time allowed him to recover physically before returning for the new season.

“Well, my summer was long, probably one of the longest summers we’ve had since my tenure with the Chiefs,” Jones said in a press conference. “But just mostly taking care of my body, getting healthy and being ready to attack on coming back.”

During the August 1 press conference, Jones said the team has moved on from last season and is focused on making the most of a fresh opportunity in 2026.

“Same burn, man. New year, same goal, man. New year, same goals, same intensity, same fire. I’m just eager to get back out there, excited to be back with the team,” Jones added. “Last year didn’t end like we wanted it to end…and we’re headed in excited about this new year with new opportunities.”

The long offseason followed a disappointing 2025 campaign for Kansas City. While the team struggled, Jones remained one of its most reliable performers.

He finished the season with 29 total tackles, seven sacks and 32 quarterback pressures, continuing to draw extra attention from opposing offenses.

Jones also earned his seventh straight Pro Bowl selection in 2025, although he was left off the first- and second-team All-Pro lists for the first time since 2019.

With a new season ahead, Jones believes the Chiefs have learned from last year’s disappointment and are ready to make the most of a fresh start in 2026.

Along with looking ahead to the new season, Jones also shared his thoughts on the Chiefs’ revamped defense.

Chris Jones impressed by Chiefs’ young defensive line

During the same press conference, Jones also shared his thoughts on the Chiefs’ young defensive line. He highlighted how the newer additions were improving quickly and expressed his excitement about Monday’s practice.

“I’m excited about the young talent we have on the D line, man. A lot of explosiveness,” Jones said. “Peter (Woods) is coming along. (Khyiris Tonga) is coming really along. R Mason (Thomas) also is doing his thing, so I’m excited to get it going. We haven’t put the pads on yet, so I’m excited to put the pads on Monday and see where we stand.”

Jones is entering his 11th season with the Chiefs. The defensive tackle is looking forward to Monday’s padded practice, when he will get a closer look at the young defensive line.

Now, the focus shifts to how the young defensive line builds on its early progress during the rest of training camp.

This article first appeared on KansasCityHuddle and was syndicated with permission.

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