Chiefs' Chris Jones Signs Massive Contract; Impact On Rams' Aaron Donald As Highest-Paid?
Hopefully Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald enjoyed being the NFL's highest-paid defensive tackle while it lasted.
On Friday, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones signed a monster extension that will make him the highest-paid player at his position, usurping Donald for the title. The five-year extension is worth nearly $160 million, with about $95 million of that money being guaranteed.
Those figures just barely surpass those of the three-year deal worth $95 million fully guaranteed that Donald signed in 2022, at least in terms of average annual value ($32 million vs $31.67 million).
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If anyone were to surpass Donald in terms of pay, it makes perfect sense for it to be Jones. Over the past two seasons, Jones has recorded 26 sacks while earning two first-team All-Pro nods and helping the Chiefs win back-to-back Super Bowls. The Mississippi State product has also been named to the Pro Bowl in each of the past five seasons.
Jones' contract situation over the past year has been fascinating to watch. The three-time Super Bowl champion held out of the 2023 season-opener while he was seeking a new deal, and the two parties eventually agreed to a one-year deal the following week. Now, Jones and the Chiefs come to a resolution that will keep him in Kansas City long-term, the ideal scenario for both sides.
Donald still has the historical edge over Jones with his eight first-team All-Pro selections and three Defensive Player of the Year awards, but Jones may give him a run for his money at his current pace.
At any rate, the two stars are leaps and bounds ahead of other defensive tackles, and they are paid as such. ... leaving us to wonder if Donald might end up wanting "a greater financial commitment to Donald'' ... as he's about to turn 33 amid two offseasons of whispers about a someday retirement.
