The Kansas City Chiefs have been relatively quiet during free agency. Aside from re-signing Travis Kelce, the front office’s moves have been modest-but one of the most notable is the addition of versatile lineman Khyiris Tonga.
Last week, the Chiefs announced Kelce’s return on a one-year, $15 million contract. Alongside the star tight end, the team has also signed:
- Kenneth Walker III (RB)
- Alohi Gilman (S)
- Kader Kohou (CB)
- Tyquan Thornton (WR)
Tonga is among their latest acquisitions. Fresh off his stint with the New England Patriots, the defensive tackle/fullback made it clear he couldn’t pass up the chance to play in Kansas City.
Tonga didn’t hesitate to play for Andy Reid
In his introductory press conference, Tonga emphasized that playing for the Chiefs-and especially for head coach Andy Reid-was the obvious choice.
“It was a no-brainer for me to come here,” Tonga said. “I’ve got ties with Coach Reid and with BYU,” he explained, noting that Reid is not only a BYU graduate but also began his coaching career there.
The six-year veteran, who signed a three-year, $21 million deal, believes he will thrive in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s system.
“System-wise, it’s perfect, so I’m just excited to be here,” Tonga added.
How Tonga fits into Spagnuolo’s defense
Although Tonga is joining his sixth team in just five NFL seasons, analysts such as Jaren Kawada of Clutch Points consider him one of the league’s most underrated defensive linemen.
While Mike Vrabel experimented with him as a fullback in New England late last season-with solid results-Tonga is expected to bolster Kansas City’s defensive front, particularly in run-stopping situations alongside Chris Jones.
With Jones, Tonga, and the return of a healthy Omarr Norman-Lott, Reid and Spagnuolo will look to offset the departures of Derrick Nnadi, Charles Omenihu, and Leo Chenal.
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