Holdout of Chiefs Pro Bowler exacerbates concerns about defense of reigning Super Bowl champions

During a Wednesday news conference, Kansas City head coach Andy Reid acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the situation but showed little concern.

"There's been no communication, so I don't know what's gonna go [on] there," Reid said. "But whatever happens, happens. If you're not there, the game goes on, right? That's how it works."

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach recently told The Kansas City Star's Jesse Newell that Jones "deserves a big contract," but the team's financial situation doesn't permit one. Per Spotrac, it is $533.7K over the cap, last in the NFL. The defensive tackle reportedly wants a deal worth $30M annually.

While the Chiefs defense could try to manage without the star lineman, it would struggle. Last season, the 29-year-old accounted for more than 25 percent of the team's total sacks (55) with 15.5 in 17 games. Outside of Jones, no other Chief logged more than six sacks.

An inconsistent pass-rush presents a problem in Weeks 1-8. Kansas City faces elite quarterbacks, such as Jacksonville's Trevor Lawrence (Week 2), New York's Aaron Rodgers (Week 4) and Los Angeles' Justin Herbert (Week 7).

"It's possible both sides are waiting for the clock to strike twelve before re-engaging," wrote Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio. "Midnight isn't here yet, but it's coming. By the end of next week, the Chiefs will commence their preparations for Week 1."

The deadline to re-sign Jones is Week 1. The Chiefs must find a way to pay him. The franchise doesn't want a hole in its defense as it attempts to become the first team to repeat as Super Bowl champion in 18 years.