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The New England Patriots got an injury update about the hidden gem on their historic defense.
After addressing their biggest need on offense by signing running back Kenneth Walker III, the Kansas City Chiefs shifted their focus to the other side of the ball by acquiring defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga.
According to a report from NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the Chiefs are signing Tonga to a three-year, $21 million contract. Defensive line is certainly one of their top roster needs, and Tonga will be the first new addition to rebuild the unit.
Former Patriots DL Khyiris Tonga is signing with the Chiefs on a three-year, $21 million deal that includes $14M guaranteed, sources tell The Insiders
Deal negotiated by @davidcanter and @NessMugrabi of @aurasportsgroup
Kansas City Chiefs Will Get a Boost in Their Defensive Line From Khyiris Tonga
Tonga is a five-year NFL veteran who has bounced around several different teams. He spent the 2025 season with the New England Patriots, where he recorded 24 total tackles, four quarterback pressures, and two passes defended in 14 games played. He also ranked 38th out of 134 qualifying defensive lineman with a 67.2 grade from Pro Football Focus.
Tonga will provide the Chiefs with excellent depth and could have a chance at a full-time starting role. With Omarr Norman-Lott coming off a torn ACL injury, Tonga will provide some insurance if Norman-Lott is slow to recover. We’ll have more on Kansas City’s signing of Tonga as it develops. . .
Nick Roesch Nick Roesch covers the NFL for Heavy Sports, with a focus on the Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, and Los Angeles Chargers. He previously covered the Chiefs for USA TODAY Sports’ Chiefs Wire, and all 32 NFL teams for A to Z Sports. Roesch’s career in sports media spans 10 years. More about Nick Roesch
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