While Kansas City’s offense garners much of the spotlight for its impressive Super Bowl runs, the Chiefs have also boasted one of the NFL’s most formidable defensive stalwarts for nearly a decade. Chris Jones, the talented defensive tackle, has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense since being drafted in 2016. His consistency and skill have made him an invaluable asset, contributing to the team’s success year after year.
Is Chris Jones playing this week? Injury updates on Chiefs DT
The excitement surrounding the Chiefs’ upcoming Christmas Day matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers is palpable, but there’s a cloud of uncertainty looming over Jones’ availability. He left the Chiefs’ recent 27-19 victory over the Texans with a calf injury, raising concerns about his status for Week 17. With just four days between games, the Chiefs are faced with a tough decision regarding their star defender.
On the Chiefs’ injury report, Jones was marked as a Did Not Participate (DNP) in Sunday’s estimated practice. By Tuesday, he was listed as questionable for the game. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting updates, as Jones’ official status may not be revealed until just before kickoff on Wednesday, set for 1 p.m. ET. Given that Kansas City has already clinched the AFC West title, there’s a possibility they might exercise caution with their best defender. However, the team is still vying for the coveted No. 1 seed in the conference, making Jones’ presence crucial.
If Jones is unable to suit up, the Chiefs will look to players like Charles Omenihu, Derrick Nnadi, and Tershawn Wharton to step up and fill the void against the Steelers. The stakes are high, and the Chiefs’ defense will need to be at its best to secure a win.
Chiefs’ 2024 defensive stats
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Jones, the Chiefs’ defense has proven to be a significant factor in the team’s impressive 14-1 record this season. While Jones’ individual statistics may not reflect his usual dominance, the collective effort of the defensive unit has been nothing short of remarkable.
As it stands, the Chiefs’ defense ranks among the elite in the NFL, showcasing their prowess in several key areas:
- 3rd in the NFL in total yards allowed per game (307.2)
- 3rd in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game (91.4)
- 3rd in the NFL in points allowed per game (18.5)
These statistics highlight just how essential the defense has been to the Chiefs’ overall success this season. With a mix of talent and tenacity, the defensive unit has kept opponents at bay, allowing the offense to shine.
Chris Jones’ impact on the team
Since joining the Chiefs, Chris Jones has made a name for himself as one of the premier defensive tackles in the league. He has played in at least 13 regular season games every year since his rookie season, consistently delivering impressive performances. Notably, Jones has recorded five sacks in each season since 2016, with three of those seasons seeing him reach the double-digit sack mark. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers has been pivotal for Kansas City.
This season alone, Jones has logged 37 total tackles, five sacks, and one forced fumble in 15 games. His combination of skill, strength, and football IQ makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. As the Chiefs prepare for the playoffs, his health and performance will be critical to their championship aspirations.
Chiefs remaining schedule
Looking ahead, the Chiefs have just one regular season game left after their Christmas Day clash with the Steelers. With the playoffs looming, Kansas City is eager to make another run at the Super Bowl title, aiming for a third consecutive championship.
Here’s how the Chiefs will conclude their regular season:
| Date | Matchup | Time (ET) |
| Dec. 25 | at Steelers | 1 p.m. |
| Jan. 5 | at Broncos | TBD |
As the Chiefs gear up for their final regular season game, all eyes will be on the health of Chris Jones. Will he be ready to take the field against the Steelers? Fans are hopeful that their defensive leader will be back in action, ready to make an impact when it matters most. The excitement of the playoffs is just around the corner, and every game counts as the Chiefs aim for greatness once again.
