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Andy Reid Praises Former Pro Bowler After Dazzling Performance Against the Ravens

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Kansas City — Following a recent run of standout games, head coach Andy Reid publicly recognized former Pro Bowler JuJu Smith-Schuster, emphasizing his stabilizing role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense.

He has always been a pillar of the Chiefs since he came to Kansas City. Veach made a wise decision bringing him back after things didn’t work out with the Patriots. I believe he’ll become irreplaceable at Arrowhead!” Reid said , after the game.

Since reuniting with Kansas City, JuJu has been deployed as a model possession receiver: crisp routes from the slot, reliable connections over the middle, chain-moving third-down conversions, and sturdy blocking on screens/RPO concepts. His veteran presence gives Patrick Mahomes a dependable outlet when coverages tighten.

From a roster-building standpoint, general manager Brett Veach’s decision to bring JuJu back arrived at the right time for an evolving wide receiver room. Having mastered Andy Reid’s system during his previous stint, JuJu reintegrated quickly, smoothing the short-to-intermediate attack and opening space for the team’s speed threats outside.

Inside the locker room, JuJu also draws praise for his professional approach and leadership: attention to detail in his routes, willingness to do the dirty work for tough yards, and steadying influence during pivotal drives. Those “quiet” traits don’t always flood the box score, but they set the rhythm for entire possessions.

Looking ahead, the Chiefs expect JuJu to maintain his consistency as the backbone of their short-to-intermediate game plan while serving as an emotional anchor for a developing receiver group. If he keeps this form, Reid’s praise could mark the start of another surge for JuJu at Arrowhead.

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Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."