The K.C. Chiefs defense was less than impressive on Sunday night against the Baltimore Ravens, to say the least. Kansas City was gashed through the ground time and time again as Baltimore’s run-heavy scheme had the Chiefs defense guessing and on its heels.
The Chiefs had a few defensive plays that stood out, but overall, the defense was underwhelming.
As effective as Chris Jones is, playing defensive end against teams like Cleveland and Baltimore limits his overall impact on the game. Jones is a pure disruptor, but that can only happen when he plays defensive tackle against teams that emphasize the run game . Against teams that are more proficient in the passing attack, Jones can play on the edge as much as he wants. However, when it comes to stopping the run, the 27-year-old should be a presence in the middle of the defensive line.
Chris Jones’ move outside has to come at right time
The Chiefs have been gashed by the run in the first two games of the season. Cleveland ran for 153 yards, while Baltimore collected 251 yards on the ground. The good news for the Chiefs is they will not be facing teams like the Browns and Ravens for the rest of the season. The two AFC North teams are built around the rushing attack, and because those teams invest so many resources into the running game, Cleveland and Baltimore are two of the best running teams in the league.
Nonetheless, teams will continue to run the ball against the Chiefs to keep Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense off the field. Jones was seen throughout the night stifled and helpless on the edge by himself. Instead of taking initiative, Jones was left being reactionary to whatever Lamar Jackson was doing with the ball. There was little Jones could do. If he was left unguarded, Jackson would hand the ball off. If Jones was guarded, he would commit to the running back, leaving open space on the outside for Jackson to run.
Jones has shown that he can be effective at both defensive end and defensive tackle, but the Chiefs may have to utilize him on the edge situationally. Passing downs is when Jones should play on the edge to help with the pass rush. The Chiefs interior defensive line does not seem up to the task of stopping the run with Jones at defensive end. On Sunday night, Jones played on 75% of the defensive snaps and only managed one tackle. Something to think about heading into Week 3 against the Chargers.