Things got testy between Kansas City Chiefs star defensive tackle Chris Jones and defensive line coach Joe Cullen during Sunday’s home game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Despite a perfect 4-0 start, the Chiefs haven’t gotten much production out of their All-Pro pass rusher. Jones entered Week 6 without a single sack, and frustrations appear to be setting in.
During the second quarter, CBS Sports’ cameras caught Jones and Cullen arguing on the sidelines. Jones grew more agitated when Cullen placed his hand on the veteran lineman’s shoulder:
CBS broadcast shows the discussion between #Chiefs DL coach Joe Cullen and Chris Jones. pic.twitter.com/z8NB0VnS4U
— Nick Jacobs (@Jacobs71) October 18, 2026
Cullen has been Kansas City’s defensive line coach since 2022, coming over after spending the 2021 campaign as the DL coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Chiefs won back-to-back Super Bowls during Cullen’s first two seasons under Andy Reid.
Kansas City entered Week 6 as one of the final three remaining undefeated teams, along with the Minnesota Vikings (5-0) and San Francisco 49ers (5-0). The Vikings are on a bye week, and the 49ers host the Washington Commanders on Monday night.
Chris Jones Has Struggled Since 2024
(Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
Jones recorded at least 7.5 sacks each year from 2018 to 2023, including 15.5 in the 2018 and 2022 seasons. However, he had just 12 total sacks in 32 combined games over the 2024 and 2025 campaigns.
Barring a phenomenal second-half finish, it looks like the three-time Super Bowl champion will finish with single-digit sacks for the third straight year.
