Arizona Cardinals rumors: Chandler Jones signs extension

The Arizona Cardinals are about to lock up one of the most elite pass rushers in the league.

Chandler Jones was hit with the franchise tag in February, but the Cardinals decided that they needed to make sure he would be around long-term.

As reported by Ian Rapoport, Jones is expected to sign a very “large” five-year extension with the team. Jones was a target of the Cardinals last offseason when they traded Jonathan Cooper and a second-round pick for the linebacker. Jones had a total of 11 sacks during his 2016 campaign along with 38 total tackles.

Jones will be entering his sixth year in the league. In 2015, Jone was selected to the Pro Bowl in after posting 12.5 sacks and 31 tackles. Jones also has playoff experience. During his four years with the New England Patriots he went to the postseason all four times and won the Super Bowl in 2014-15 campaign.

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As for the Cardinals, they disappointed last season, failing to reach the playoffs. Arizona needed to retain Jones, as it may already be seeing safety Tony Jefferson and defensive end Calais Campbell leave in free agency. Last year, the defense ranked second in yards allowed, only coming in behind the Houston Texans. If the defense regresses, it could spell another tough year in the desert.

The offense could very well be addressed in the draft. Sitting 13th in the first round, general manager Steve Keim might go for a young quarterback to start grooming in what likely is Carson Palmer’s last year with the franchise.