Chiefs fans holding out hope that Chris Jones might return to the team prior to the season opener against the Lions might want to quit holding their breath. According to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, the two sides are “not close to a deal” and is not present at today’s practice.

This means it is almost a certainty that Jones will not be available for the team’s September 7th game against Detroit. The Chiefs will be dropping a new banner in celebration of winning Super Bowl LVII and it’s a party that Jones will likely not be a part of.

#Chiefs star DT Chris Jones, who is still holding out, isn’t present and won’t be at today’s practice — considered a Wednesday practice of game week — with the two sides not close on a deal, sources say.

KC opens the season Thursday against the #Lions.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 3, 2023

Source: Starcade Media