Source: Patriots losing defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga to Chiefs

Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald on Mar 9, 2026

Published in Football

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BOSTON — Ex-New England Patriots defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga is leaving to sign a 3-year free-agent contract with the Kansas City Chiefs worth up to $21 million, according to a source.

Tonga started eight of 17 games last year, recording 31 tackles, a sack, four QB hits and a pair of pass breakups. Tonga departs after a career year in New England, where he signed a flier contract in free agency last spring. He blossomed as a pass rusher, generating consistent interior pressure that moved opposing quarterbacks off their spot.

Tonga finished the season with the 18th-highest pass-rush grade among defensive tackles at Pro Football Focus, and a top-40 grade at his position. He also moonlighted as a fullback in short-yardage situations. Head coach Mike Vrabel regularly praised Tonga for his attitude and work ethic inside the building.

The Patriots were close to a contract extension with Tonga last December, when talks fell apart near the finish line, per sources. The 29-year-old then saw league interest expand in a depressed defensive tackle market and out-performed expectations with his new deal in Kansas City. Initial projections had Tonga closer to $4-5 million per year.

The Pats now need to fill a hole at defensive tackle behind Milton Williams and Christian Barmore, with Cory Durden, Joshua Farmer and Leonard Taylor III among the top reserves.

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