Chris Jones doesn't have the title of general manager for the Kansas City Chiefs, but that's not stopping him from weighing in on the teammates he'd like to see beside him on the field and in the locker room in 2026.
Jones, the star defensive tackle for the Chiefs, has been a cornerstone in the trenches for the entire ascent from playoff contender to reigning dynasty. In that time, he's played alongside a few other household names with solid cases to potentially join him in the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day. And Jones has made it clear that he's hoping two of those players are back in K.C. for one more run next season.
On Monday, Jones heard the news that the Miami Dolphins had released wide receiver Tyreek Hill as one of several cost-cutting measures under a new front office and coaching staff. Jones had one thing on his mind: a reunion with the Chiefs.
@cheetah it’s ⏰
— Chris Jones (@StoneColdJones) February 16, 2026
Now, it's possible that fans are reading into that idea. Maybe Jones simply means that it's time to hang out—perhaps there's a standing poker game or something else unnamed. But Jones has also gone on record as saying he believes star tight end Travis Kelce will postpone the idea of retirement for one more year so that he can join him for another season at Arrowhead.
The Chiefs' defensive tackle is hoping his fellow Chiefs stars are ready for one more run together in 2026.
With Eric Bieniemy back in the fold as offensive coordinator after three seasons away from the team, the Chiefs are already feeling the retro vibes. The Chiefs' offense used to be the envy of the league during Patrick Mahomes' first few seasons. After the team traded Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins in 2022, however, the identity shifted to a more balanced roster anchored by Jones and a stout defense to go with Mahomes' magic. No one would argue with the results, since the Chiefs won two more championships after Hill was dealt.
The idea of a return for Hill after four seasons in Miami is a tall order, however. The primary hurdle is Hill's knee after he suffered a season-ending injury that required surgery to repair several torn ligaments. At the age of 32, it's impossible to know when Hill will even be ready to return or what he'll have left in the tank at that point. Hill issued a statement following his release that pointed to a return, so it's clear that, at this point, the Cheetah isn't considering retirement despite his many achievements and a long road ahead in recovery.
If the Chiefs have an interest, and if Hill is ready, Jones will likely continue to push for a path back to Kansas City. The championship memories are already good, but Jones is keen to add more.