Chiefs news: Chris Jones reiterates desire to remain with KC 'for life'

Just one day before the Kansas City Chiefs open their season against the visiting Detroit Lions to kick off a new year in the National Football League, Chris Jones isn't even on the team's roster. But that hasn't removed anything from the sentiment that he actually wants to be with the organization for the rest of his professional life.

On Wednesday, Jones remained locked in his position of holding out from the team in frustration with the state of negotiations over a new long-term deal. Yet he also fulfilled his responsibilities to help raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City (RMHCKC) on Wednesday and actually answered some questions from reporters.

Jones was quick to say he could not comment directly on negotiations, but that's when he added, "It's always been my goal to be a Kansas City Chief for life."

The sentiment to stay in Kansas City is still as strong as ever for Chris Jones.

According to Nate Taylor of The Athletic, Jones answered his question about when he could be ready by stating that if he were able to reach a contractual agreement today, "I can be out there tomorrow." While that sounds nice as a soundbyte, the truth is Chiefs Kingdom is highly unlikely to see Jones play on Thursday night knowing there's no present deal in place and that getting ready to play reps typically takes the preseason for good reason.

That said, this is a positive development overall. Jones is saying the right things and still finding ways to make a local impact—something he likely wouldn't be doing if he were that upset with the team and/or wanting to work his way out of town. Here's hoping the two sides can find a way to bridge their differences soon so that Jones can make his way back onto the field, even if it's not as soon as Thursday Night Football against the Lions.