Chandler Jones is one of the top pass rushers in the game and is the sixth-ranked overall free agent on Pro Football Network’s Top 50 Free Agents list. He generated 10+ sacks in all but one of his six years in Arizona, the one being in 2020 when he played just five games. What sort of contract could Jones see this free agency, and what are his notable stats and accolades?
Chandler Jones: Free Agency Overview
Jones, who turns 32 this offseason, had 47 pressures last season and is an accomplished and valuable edge rusher with an extensive repertoire of pass-rushing moves. He has an outstanding, proven ability to close out plays and get the quarterback on the ground. Although Jones is a bit older, he’s shown no signs of slowing down and is regarded as a priority for top teams looking for a pass rusher to disrupt the backfield.
Recapping Jones’ 2021 season
Jones opened 2021 with a 5-sack performance against the Tennessee Titans. That tied the Cardinals’ single-game sack record. He finished the season with 10.5 sacks, 41 tackles, 4 pass deflections, and 6 forced fumbles. Jones was named to his fourth Pro Bowl and excelled despite defensive end J.J. Watt being sidelined with multiple upper-body injuries that required surgery.
Between 2016 and 2019, Jones had the most sacks in the NFL with 60 and was twice named first-team All-Pro. But what sort of contract might he see on the open market?
Jones’ contract estimate and salary cap implications
Jones’ five-year, $82.5 million contract that included $51 million guaranteed is expiring. He averaged $16.5 million annually over the course of the deal. On a new deal, many project Jones to make $20-22 million annually, even if it’s a two-year or three-year contract.
Possible landing spots for Jones
The Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, Miami Dolphins, and Jacksonville Jaguars all make sense for Jones as they could use a top-flight pass rusher.
What they’re saying about Jones
“Got my ass kicked today, no way around that. I let the team and the fans down. Thank you Chandler Jones for exposing me. It will only force me to get better.” — Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan last September after allowing 5 sacks to Jones.