There is no denying the consistent decline in production from Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones. Before getting a top-dollar extension, the pass rusher managed to put up back-to-back seasons of double-digit sacks, including 15.5 in the 2022 season, which made it clear KC was going to need to hand the lineman a massive raise. Since getting this extension, Jones has combined for 12.0 sacks over the past two seasons.
While one could point to declining production from a player not living up to expectations, a case can also be made for the declining talent around the veteran being part of the reason. This introduces a sense of urgency for the Chiefs to find impact players to plug in alongside Jones, leading us to examine three potential free-agent fits.
1. David Onyemata
The veteran pass rusher was a part of a roster with the second-highest sack total in the league, trailing only the Denver Broncos. While the Atlanta Falcons didn't have one clear star piling up sacks, Onyemata deserves credit for setting up so many plays by doing the dirty work on the inside. The veteran finished the season with one lone sack, but was far more impactful than this number might suggest.
Understanding the defender's impact only requires turning on the tape and watching the intensity he brought to the middle of Atlanta's defense. Even at this late stage of his career, Onyemata is a force on the inside that sets up pass rushers for easier matchups on the outside and breaks the integrity of the pocket.
It is fun to consider what the pairing of Onyemata and Jones could accomplish on the inside. In examining the market and considering the Chiefs' ability to open further space by pushing money into the future, while also parting ways with failing players, it seems the veteran is likely within Kansas City's price range as well.
2. Calais Campbell
Campbell is 39 years old and arguably the most enticing free agent at his position. This speaks to the incredible level of play the veteran has continued to find at an age where most of his peers are sitting at home or joining sports media. For the Chiefs, all they need to know is the fact that Campbell finished the year with 6.5 sacks, and if anything, looked more impactful than a season ago when he was a part of the Miami Dolphins.
Having Campbell on the inside with Jones when the game is on the line is a nightmare pairing for any opposing defense. Both players have a reputation for finding ways to make a play in the biggest moments. Having the ability to put them on the field together would not only be an exciting offseason addition but also offer accomplished defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo a much-needed presence on the inside.
For Jones, it allows the pass rusher to have some of the pressure taken off with another capable piece stepping into the lineup. While you would still need another impact addition based on Campbell's age, it is hard to argue against the move if the defender can be convinced to return.
3. Teair Tart
The chance to steal Tart from the Los Angeles Chargers is an enticing option when it comes to extended depth. Tart isn't going to bring the star presence of Campbell or the upside of Onyemata; however, there is value in signing much-needed size. Tart is capable of getting to the quarterback and shown flashes of being an impact player in the starting lineup.
It would be fun to see what the veteran might accomplish with the chance to play with the most talented interior defender he's lined up with in his career, with Jones. For the Chiefs, it is a low-cost, high-upside move that makes sense for Tart and the Chiefs. The defender could sign a short-term one-year deal in hopes of riding Spanuolo's defense to a bigger payday.
The Chiefs can bolster their defensive line depth at a low cost by adding a piece that presents a high upside. No question, it is a move that should be explored in the next weeks of the offseason.