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The Kansas City Chiefs are placing their franchise tag on defensive tackle Chris Jones, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The news is expected as the Chiefs wanted Jones back but there had been no reported progress on an extension. Teams have until 11:59 a.m. to use their franchise or transition tags.
Jones finished the season with nine sacks, a year after accruing 15.5 sacks. However, he had an otherwise dominant season anchoring the Chiefs defensive line. Pro Football Focus ranked him sixth in overall defensive grade and fourth in pass rush productivity.
The Chiefs ranked 14th overall in defensive efficiency at Football Outsiders, ranking sixth in pass defense efficiency. The Chiefs defensive front ranked tenth in pass rush productivity, but 28th in adjusted line yards. Jones is a critical cog, but look for the Chiefs to add some talent to their defensive front in free agency and/or the draft. The Chiefs defense ranked seventh in points allowed but dealt with some inconsistency throughout the season.