Chiefs Teasing New Role for Chris Jones on Defense

Being a professional athlete in a team sport means having the ability to adapt to different situations. Whether it's adjusting to opposing matchups or learning to play a new position, versatility is always appreciated by any organization. Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones will get a chance to show how versatile he can be in the 2021 NFL season.

Jones has made a career out of being a beast on the interior of the Chiefs' defensive line. In fact, Pro Football Focus ranks him as the 2nd-best interior defender in the NFL, only behind Los Angeles Rams DT Aaron Donald. However, Chiefs beat writer Sam McDowell reported on Thursday that Jones will see a lot of time playing on the outside of the defensive line next season.

Chris Jones News

McDowell tweeted that even though it's been assumed that Jones would spend some time on the exterior, it wasn't guaranteed until Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo confirmed it on Thursday. Spagnuolo went on to add that he understands that it could take a bit of time for Jones to adjust to seeing time as a defensive end.

"I think that’s important: when you change a position, it’s just not that easy to pick up a whole new spot — and we do some different things with the defensive ends. So he’ll [Jones] play out there a little bit — and you know, we’ll move him back inside when we have to."

- Steve Spagnuolo, Chiefs DC

Even if it takes time to adjust, it won't be a surprise if Jones can make it work — he's just that good. The two-time Pro-Bowler has suited up in 76 games over five seasons with the Chiefs, recording 172 total tackles, 40.5 sacks, 9 forced fumbles and 2 interceptions (one of which was returned for a pick-6). He's also been named as a second-team All-Pro player twice and played an integral role in Kansas City's Super Bowl 54 victory.

As it stands, the Chiefs are the current favorites to win next season's Super Bowl at +500 odds, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. If another championship run is truly in the books, Jones' ability to adjust to his new role could be a determining factor.

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