Chris Jones has three Super Bowl rings and a Hall of Fame resume, but one NFL coach thinks the Kansas City Chiefs star has a glaring weakness. Even elite defenders aren’t perfect, and Jones apparently has room for improvement despite his dominant career.
No athlete, regardless of level or sport, is perfect. While they can operate at a consistently elite level, flawless performance isn’t attainable. With too many variables out of their control, top athletes cannot manipulate and bend everything to their will. Instead, they overcome and adjust to maintain their dominance.
What Does This Anonymous Coach See as Chris Jones’ Biggest Flaw?
Entering his 10th season, Jones owns an enviable trophy room. The three Super Bowl rings adorning his fingers remind him of his brilliance and stellar play. During his tenure in Kansas City, Missouri, Jones has crafted a Hall of Fame legacy that awaits his retirement to get into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The Mississippi State standout blends size, strength, deceptive quickness, and a general nastiness that puts pressure on blockers to keep him occupied as long as possible. Jones wins from snap to whistle with 80.5 sacks and 13 forced fumbles.
Despite the awards and voluminous game film, one anonymous NFL coach spoke to ESPN regarding what he sees in Jones.
“Conversely, one veteran NFL coach called him ‘increasingly one-dimensional,'” the anonymous coach said. “‘The best DTs in the league take over the run and pass, and there were moments where you didn’t notice [Jones] much. The best at that position crash the game no matter what.'”
First, why does the coach need to be anonymous? In the adult world, hiding behind the veil of anonymity should not exist. Beyond that, finding fault with a defensive tackle that remains a threat to post another double-digit sack season seems questionable, especially when such production is rare.
Since 1997, only two tackles have led the league in sacks.
Under those circumstances, anything more than eight sacks from an interior lineman will be regarded as excellent. Poll any opposing coach and ask if they would release their starter at the three-technique to sign Jones.
To illustrate the point, this play won Super Bowl LVIII for the Chiefs.
The pressure that Chris Jones puts on Brock Purdy on 3rd and 4 is not being talked about enough! 😤
— Brad Henson Productions (@BradHensonPro) June 2, 2025
How Does Jones Impact His Teammates’ Success?
In 2024, Jones, in the eyes of many, suffered through a down season with only five sacks. However, look around the defense and feel his impact on the entire unit.
George Karlaftis, over the last two seasons, posted 18.5 sacks. He thrives, knowing that a double team is not coming his way.
George Karlaftis (KC-DE)#ChiefsKingdom #Dline pic.twitter.com/ecLcWbza2V
— PassRushDiary🦅 (@PassRushDiary) July 7, 2025
Facing a single blocker remains much easier than fighting off two offensive linemen. Playing on the interior is not the glorious job of an edge rusher. Jones makes his teammates better with his ability to collapse the pocket. The question remains: How will the 31-year-old affect the team in the 2025 season?
