3 Second-Year Chiefs Poised for Breakout Seasons
By Joe Summers
3. Cam Jones - LB
The second Jones on our list, Cam was extremely impressive in Week 18 against the Chargers when the Chiefs rested their starters. He played 95% of snaps and notched a team-high 12 tackles, showcasing the speed and instincts that made him a quality player at Indiana.
Outside of Sneed and Edwards, Willie Gay Jr. is the only other major player from last year's defense that's gone now. Leo Chenal presumably steps into his role, though someone will need to backfill Chenal's snaps. I think that burden falls on Cam Jones' shoulders. At the least, he proved in Week 18 that he deserves an opportunity.
Jones was in for 67% of special teams snaps. He's won over Dave Toub and should remain a key cog in that unit, but I believe he'll get some run for Steve Spagnuolo's group too now.
#Chiefs UDFA Linebacker Cam Jones measured in at 6'1" & 226 at the Combine, bringing all of that to the hit once he reads the play pic.twitter.com/E8A7DopexY
— Ron Kopp Jr. (@Ron_Kopp) May 31, 2023
With a 4.69 40-yard dash and long wingspan, Jones has the profile to be effective against both the run and pass. He's a capable blitzer and great in pursuit. There's a role for him on this defense and we've seen linebackers suffer injuries before. If someone goes down, Jones will be filling that role.
He was an undrafted free agent but was one of the most underrated additions for the Chiefs in last year's rookie class. Gay's speed will be missed in the linebacker group, though Jones' potential should excite Kansas City regardless.
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