The disappointing 2025 NFL season for the Kansas City Chiefs continues to send shockwaves through the franchise, with star players now openly expressing their frustration. The latest trigger is the potential departure of another key coaching staff member, prompting a raw public reaction from defensive tackle Chris Jones.
Coaching Staff Exodus Begins After Disastrous Campaign
According to a report by NFL insider Adam Schefter on Friday, Chiefs defensive line coach Joe Cullen interviewed with the Washington Commanders for their vacant defensive coordinator position. This news followed a week where the team already parted ways with wide receivers coach Connor Embree due to performance issues. Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy is also not expected to return, being linked to several head coaching interviews.
The potential loss of Cullen struck a nerve with Chris Jones, who took to social media platform X with a blunt, two-word reaction that captured the growing unease within the organisation. His response highlighted a broader concern about the erosion of a trusted coaching foundation following a year where everything went wrong.
A Season That Unraveled for the Champions
For a franchise synonymous with playoff success, the 2025 campaign was a profound shock. The Chiefs finished with a dismal 6-11 record, missing the postseason for the first time since 2014. This failure has created a wave of instability, affecting both the roster and the coaching staff under head coach Andy Reid, who has already acknowledged that changes are inevitable.
Injuries played a devastating role, most notably the torn ACL suffered by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes late in the year. Questions also loom over the future of veteran tight end Travis Kelce, whose potential retirement discussions add to the offseason uncertainty.
Why Cullen's Potential Exit Hits Jones Personally
Joe Cullen is not just another coach for Chris Jones. Cullen joined the Chiefs in 2022 and is widely credited for his work with the defensive front. Under his guidance, Jones produced some of his most dominant seasons, including multiple campaigns with double-digit sacks.
Even during the team's struggles in 2025, Jones remained a force, leading the team in sacks. The Chiefs' run defense, a relative bright spot, was also a testament to Cullen's work. For a player who values continuity, the prospect of losing this trusted voice is a significant blow.
Chris Jones's frustration is a clear signal that the Chiefs are battling more than just a poor win-loss record. They are fighting to protect a championship culture that suddenly feels fragile. His public reaction echoes what many fans fear: the road back to Super Bowl contention may be longer and more turbulent than anyone anticipated.
