Kansas City Chiefs: Way too early look at 2020 offseason

Chiefs cap room is limited and Chris Jones’ value likely exceeds what the franchise can afford to pay.

We all love Chris Jones. You love him, the person over there loves him, I love him. He’s a really good player, young and a force.

Sadly, however, after spending big money on Tyreek Hill, Tyrann Mathieu and Frank Clark last offseason and a contract that will be so big it may actually provide shade over parts of town, there simply isn’t money left for the big man.

In a passing league, it’s difficult to fathom the idea of having multiple 100 million defensive linemen with questions at the position groups behind him. It certainly appears the dye was cast with Jones when the organization used multiple draft picks and a monster contract to bring in Clark and use a third round pick on Khalen Saunders in last year’s draft.

I certainly expect the Chiefs to tag Jones and be open to a trade of the defensive tackle much as they were last year with Dee Ford. The return should be greater than what the 49ers gave up for Ford, but it will all depend on what teams are willing to surrender in both cash and draft picks.

The Chiefs are not likely going to be big spenders in free agency, but may find a name or two to help replenish the roster.

Currently, the Chiefs sit at 26th in the NFL cap room with just under $19 million in cap room at $18.995 million. This is a big reason why Chris Jones isn’t likely returning, but will also likely be a factor why the Chiefs don’t pursue big ticket names in free agency.

With the return of the depth pieces I mentioned above, much of the free room likely will be taken up between that and the draft picks the Chiefs will need to sign.

That being said, there are a few names that could tempt the Chiefs, but also be found at the right price. Eli Apple, formerly of the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints, could be a name that interests the Chiefs. He spent two years with the Giants while current defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo was there. Could a reunion occur?

Another name to keep an eye on could be Falcons end Vic Beasley. The organization has already announced they will not be retaining the outside pass rusher despite having recorded 37 sacks during his five year career with Atlanta. He’s very Dee Ford in that he’s not a great run defender, but his availability to the Chiefs as a pass rusher would be dependent on his price.