Five players the Chiefs must make room for in 2023

Nic Jones

Speaking of Nic Jones, I want to make this clear: He played his way onto the 53-man roster with a strong training camp and looks like a bargain as a rookie seventh-round pick. Unfortunately, Jones fractured some fingers in the preseason opener against the New Orleans Saints. It soured a strong start for the Ball State alum, but it should not complicate his roster status.

Jones saw some action with the first-team defense during training camp in St. Joe, and didn't look overwhelmed by the scenarios at all. He displayed good instincts and athleticism, making several impressive plays during practice. He even intercepted Patrick Mahomes on one rep.

In a defensive back room made up of late-round picks, anything is possible for Jones. The Chiefs could use him to round out the cornerback position and help out on special teams. In his lone preseason appearance, he appeared on every special teams unit except field goals. The coaching staff wants to work him in, however, that looks.

It certainly helps that Jones works best in the slot, allowing more freedom for Trent McDuffie and L'Jarius Sneed when he returns. Regarding Jones' return, head coach Andy Reid did not have much of an answer. "Nic Jones, I mentioned he had a hand fracture," Reid said on Aug. 15. "He's at a specialist right now, so we'll see how he does."

While no news is good news, it leads me to believe that Jones will start the season on IR. The Chiefs could have one or two roster moves after they place him there, but they first need to ensure he is on the team's 53-man roster.