Locked on Chiefs: Justin Houston & Chris Jones are keys to 2017

Dec 4, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston (50) celebrates fourth quarter after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 29-28 at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston (50) celebrates fourth quarter after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 29-28 at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

The keys for the Kansas City Chiefs’ 2017 season come down to the Justin Houston and Chris Jones.

Justin Houston’s return to the Kansas City Chiefs has not gone unnoticed. As he participated in the team’s mandatory minicamp, the level of competition clearly rose. His return should reinvigorate a pass rush that came up short in 2016.

The player that should reap the benefits of Houston’s return as well as the continued progress of Dee Ford, is Chris Jones. Jones is in a position to have a breakout season. Jones, who was inconsistent, but productive in 2016, could see a large step forward in 2017.

With Houston bookended By Ford, defenses will be that much more susceptible to Jones’ pass rush. Jones has shown flashes of excellence in his rookie season and looks to follow it up with an expanded repertoire and a more consistent performance in 2017. With Bennie Logan and Allen Bailey, Jones will be able to remain fresh in the rotation and wreak havoc on passing downs.

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