When the New Orleans Saints face the Kansas City Chiefs on ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” this week, the return of safety Tyrann Mathieu will be a major story. Mathieu earned two Pro Bowl selections and a First Team All-Pro nod during his time with the Chiefs from 2019-21.
The Saints defense features former Chiefs as well, including defensive end Tannoh Kpassagnon and linebacker Willie Gay Jr., who are currently sidelined due to injury.
One former Chief defender who will be playing is defensive tackle Khalen Saunders.
After the Chiefs’ Friday practice, star defensive lineman Chris Jones talked about his close bond with Saunders, his teammate from 2019-22.
“That’s my guy, man,” Jones declared. “Me and Khalen became very close during his time here. I used to visit his house and still call his mom ‘Mama.’ We had a personal relationship. He’s my guy, and I wish him success in the league. I know that when we play on Monday, he’s an opponent.”
During his time with the Chiefs, Saunders was occasionally used in the offensive backfield. In his first season with the Saints last year, he saw playing time on 16 offensive snaps.
Jones wonders if he and Saunders might be on the field together on Monday night.
“I spoke to him last night,” Jones said. “I’ll call him today to see if he has any insights about being on offense. He might not reveal anything, but it’s all good. It’s great to compete against former teammates whom you achieved a lot with in the past.”
Once the game starts, Jones knows that winning will take precedence over friendship.
“It’s a challenge,” he remarked on the matchup. “We aim to win, so it’s exciting. We’re looking forward to it, and perhaps we can catch up after the game.”
