Defensive end Tyson Jackson will remain with the Kansas City Chiefs after agreeing to restructure his deal, according to a league source.

The No. 3 pick of the 2009 draft was expected to be a prime candidate to be cut. His salary-cap number was at more than $17 million and his base salary was at more than $14 million. Under this new deal, the source said, Jackson can make up to $5.2 million with a much more manageable salary-cap number. Jackson is still eligible to be a free agent in 2014.

The Chiefs need the salary-cap relief after signing receiver Dwayne Bowe and punter Dustin Colquitt to significant contracts Monday. The team also gave left tackle Branden Albert the franchise tag at more than $9.7 million and it is adding quarterback Alex Smith.

Jackson is expected to continue to start for the Chiefs. He has been a solid player, especially against the run, but he has not lived up to his high draft status. Still, the new Kansas City regime is sticking with him along with getting cap relief.