DL Chris Jones (calf) is not expected to play for Chiefs vs. Steelers at Christmas

With a chance to hold onto the AFC’s top seed, the Kansas City Chiefs are unlikely to have their best defensive player on the field.

Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones is not expected to play against the host Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday morning.

Jones injured his calf on Saturday in a win over the Houston Texans and drew a questionable designation on Wednesday. He won’t be able to give it a shot as KC aims to win the conference’s No. 1 seed with a win over Pittsburgh.

It’s a big loss, as Jones’ presence is invaluable at the center of defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s defense with his game-breaking ability and versatility to play anywhere on the line.

The five-time Pro Bowler has five sacks, 20 QB hits and 37 tackles so far this season.

The Chiefs (14-1) start against the Steelers (10-5) at 1pm ET Wednesday on Netflix.