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Kansas City Rift: Chris Jones Tears Into Rookie Who Stormed Out of Camp After Learning a Lower Pick Landed a Fatter Payday

Kansas City, MO  — A surprising twist hit the Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp when a standout rookie abruptly walked off the practice field after discovering that a later draft pick is earning a larger contract.

The decision stunned both teammates and coaches, especially given the rookie’s impressive showing in the team’s preseason win over the Arizona Cardinals, where he led the defense in tackles and drew praise from the coaching staff.

That rookie is linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, a fifth-round selection out of Oregon, who signed a four-year, $4.61 million deal with $413,652 guaranteed. His frustration reportedly boiled over after learning seventh-round running back Brashard Smith has a larger total contract value.

“SKIPPING PRACTICE OVER A CONTRACT? THAT’S COWARDLY. IN KANSAS CITY, WE SWEAT, COMPETE, AND EARN OUR SPOTS. WE’VE TURNED DOWN BIGGER MONEY JUST TO WEAR RED AND GOLD — IF YOU CAN’T HANDLE IT, HAND YOUR JERSEY TO SOMEONE WHO WILL FIGHT FOR IT.” Jones told reporters.

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Bassa’s departure came less than 48 hours after his six-tackle performance against the Cardinals, a game that saw him flash the athleticism and coverage skills head coach Andy Reid had praised just days earlier. His walkout has left many puzzled.

Brashard Smith, the player at the center of the contract comparison, signed a four-year, $5.33 million deal with $233,476 guaranteed. While Smith has shown promise as a pass-catching back, he did not record any notable stats against Arizona.

For Kansas City, the episode is an unwelcome distraction as camp enters a critical stretch. Coaches and veterans alike are working to keep focus on preparation, especially with roster cuts looming in the weeks ahead.

Whether Bassa returns to the field or this marks a turning point in his rookie season remains to be seen. For now, the Chiefs’ message is clear — in this locker room, commitment comes before contract disputes.

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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."