BE.Chris Jones Shines After Aunt’s Funeral – Is Football a Healing Medicine or an Emotional Escape?
September 29, 2025
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — It was an emotionally charged day for Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, who attended his Aunt Don’s funeral in Mississippi just hours before Sunday’s game. Despite the heavy heart, Jones made it back in time to play a key role in the Chiefs’ 37-20 rout of the Baltimore Ravens.
Jones skipped warmups but arrived in Kansas City at 2:40 p.m., a mere 45 minutes before kickoff, ensuring he was on the field for the opening snap. “It was a lot, overcome with emotions, but it felt fun to be back on the field with my brothers, enjoy the win, the atmosphere, feeling the energy here,” Jones shared postgame.
Listed on Saturday’s injury report for a personal matter unrelated to injury, the Chiefs and Jones’ family crafted a strategic plan to accommodate his attendance. “Left yesterday, came back after the funeral today,” he explained. “We had it planned out; we had a strategic plan to get me here in time for the game.” His family’s support was crucial, adjusting the funeral schedule to allow his participation while honoring family needs. “I’m super appreciative of them for understanding,” Jones added.
For Jones, football served as a sanctuary amid his grief. Emotional before the game, he leaned on his teammates and the crowd’s energy to cope. “It’s tough, any time you lose a loved one, or someone you love and cherish and care about, it’s emotional. Being around good energy, good people, it makes you feel good. Football is my escape, where I can escape from the reality of what’s really going on and just have fun, being like a kid in the backyard playing football again,” he said.
The Chiefs delivered a standout performance, with Jones contributing one tackle for loss, one pass deflection, and two QB hits. His lone fourth-quarter tackle drew a thunderous ovation from the crowd. The defense’s dominance helped secure the win, lifting the Chiefs to 2-2.
Jones also reaffirmed his stance against swapping jerseys with Russell Wilson, a decision that stirred buzz after Week 3. Next up, the Chiefs face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday Night Football in Week 5.
Based on reports from Chiefs’ media and postgame statements.
