The Trade That Could Have Changed the Chiefs Forever: Chris Jones, the Steal of 2016? 🏈💥

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The year was 2016, and the Kansas City Chiefs found themselves in the midst of a draft decision that would shape the franchise’s future for years to come. As the team sat at the 28th pick in the first round, the Chiefs were facing a crucial crossroads in their journey toward becoming a Super Bowl contender. Little did they know that a decision made in the draft room that year would go down in history as one of the most pivotal moments in their modern-day success.

At the heart of the debate that night was Chris Jones, a towering defensive tackle from Mississippi State who had shown flashes of brilliance but was still somewhat of a gamble. The Chiefs had their eyes set on bolstering their defensive line, but there was a catch: the team was split between Jones and another prospect, Robert Nkemdiche, a highly-touted player from Ole Miss. What unfolded next was a classic example of NFL decision-making at its finest—a gamble, a trade, and ultimately, a trade that altered the course of the franchise.

As the Chiefs’ front office gathered to discuss their options that evening, tensions ran high. On one side of the debate were those who favored Nkemdiche, citing his potential and versatility. On the other side stood those who saw something in Chris Jones that others might have overlooked. “There was a big argument,” recalls Ryne Nutt, an area scout at the time and the Chiefs’ current vice president of player personnel. “It came down to who we thought would be the more consistent player. I think Chris Jones ultimately won us over because he had that relentless motor and a high ceiling.”

This disagreement was far from trivial. As the Chiefs’ owner Clark Hunt, head coach Andy Reid, and general manager John Dorsey stood at the helm of the decision, their deep football acumen and high expectations for the team were on the line. Nutt, who was deeply involved in the scouting process, recalls the intensity of the discussions surrounding Jones. “We knew that picking a defensive tackle in that draft was crucial. We needed to make sure we selected someone who could be a dominant force, someone who could make an immediate impact. And when you look at Chris Jones, you see a guy who was just scratching the surface.”

Despite the internal tug-of-war over who to select, Dorsey and his team made a bold move: they traded down, exiting the first round and collecting extra picks in exchange for dropping out of the 28th spot. The decision was calculated, but it was one that would eventually pay dividends in a way that few could have anticipated. The centerpiece of the trade was the 37th pick, which the Chiefs would use to select Chris Jones. The trade would go down as a stroke of genius, and Jones would become the cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense for years to come.

Looking back on that pivotal night, the trade appears more like a masterstroke. After a year filled with turmoil and trade rumors, Dorsey’s decision to move down in the draft proved to be one of the most significant turning points in Chiefs’ history. Jones, despite the initial uncertainty, rapidly became a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. His physical presence and unrelenting work ethic would soon make him one of the most feared defenders in the NFL.

But the trade wasn’t just about getting a talented player. It was a statement. It signified a shift in the Chiefs’ approach to building a championship-caliber team. By securing Chris Jones, the Chiefs didn’t just draft a player; they created a foundation for the franchise’s future. And, as it turned out, Jones would be more than just a solid contributor—he would become a key player in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory just a few years later.

A Legacy in the Making

Since his arrival, Chris Jones has been nothing short of spectacular. His ability to disrupt the passing game, stop the run, and create havoc in the backfield has made him a staple of the Chiefs’ defense. Over the years, Jones has evolved into one of the best defensive tackles in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and becoming a key player in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LV win.

Jones’ transformation into an elite defensive player also underscores a broader point: the Chiefs’ ability to spot talent and develop it. The team’s front office, with Dorsey and now general manager Brett Veach, has built a reputation for making smart, calculated moves that consistently position the team for success. Whether it’s through draft selections, trades, or free-agent acquisitions, the Chiefs have maintained a philosophy of building a well-rounded, championship-caliber roster.

In 2020, Jones was pivotal in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run, with his performance in the postseason playing a crucial role in the team’s success. His incredible sack against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV was not just a game-changing moment; it was a culmination of years of development and hard work. By the time the Chiefs hoisted the Lombardi Trophy, it was clear that Chris Jones was one of the key contributors to the team’s success.

Yet, even as Jones’ individual accomplishments continue to mount, the broader impact of the 2016 draft trade remains undeniable. That single trade laid the groundwork for the Chiefs’ future. The front office’s ability to move down in the draft and secure more picks ultimately led to the franchise building a roster that was capable of contending for—and ultimately winning—a Super Bowl.

Drafting for the Future: The Chiefs’ Approach in 2026

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Chiefs find themselves in a familiar position: needing to make key decisions that will affect the franchise’s future. However, unlike in 2016 when they were trying to find their foundation, the Chiefs are now looking to add finishing touches to a dynasty that has already reached the highest levels of success. The team is once again positioned with a high pick—9th overall—and the question looms large: How will they use it?

In his recent media availability, Brett Veach, the Chiefs’ general manager, made it clear that the team is looking to address multiple needs across the roster. The Chiefs have long been a balanced team, but the reality of the NFL means that no team is ever truly complete. The defensive backfield, offensive line, and pass rush are all areas that could benefit from further reinforcement.

“We’ve been a top-tier team for a while now, and we still need help in areas. The draft is going to be crucial for us to continue this run,” said Veach. “Whether it’s a defensive back, a receiver, or a pass rusher, we have the flexibility to go in any direction. We just have to make sure we continue adding talent to keep us competitive.”

With the Chiefs’ roster already brimming with talent, the 2026 draft presents a unique opportunity for the team to take another step toward building a dynasty. And if there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that the front office is not resting on its laurels. As the 2026 season looms, the Chiefs are committed to making the most of their draft capital and ensuring that they remain at the top of the league for years to come.

A Legacy of Smart Decisions

Looking back on the 2016 trade and the success that followed, it’s easy to see how one decision can alter the course of a franchise’s destiny. The Chris Jones trade may have seemed like a minor move at the time, but it ultimately became a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ ascent to NFL royalty. Today, as they look to the future, the Chiefs remain focused on continuing to make shrewd decisions, developing players, and adding talent that will keep them in the hunt for more championships.

In the end, the Chiefs’ ability to make smart, calculated moves is what will continue to define their legacy. And while the 2016 trade for Chris Jones will forever be remembered as one of the defining moments of the franchise’s rise, it’s clear that the future holds even more potential for Kansas City. With each draft, each trade, and each decision, the Chiefs are writing the next chapter of their dynasty—one that could last for many years to come.

Will 2026 be another chapter in the Chiefs’ championship story? Time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: with their knack for making game-changing decisions, the Chiefs are primed for even greater success.