The New England Patriots made numerous offseason additions, which have played a big part in their transformation into Super Bowl contenders. Big-name signings like wideout Stefon Diggs and defensive tackle Milton Williams have become integral factors and leaders to their respective sides, while rookie offensive tackle Will Campbell and running back TreVeyon Henderson have surpassed expectations with their instant contributions.
While these players have done a stellar job thus far, hardly anyone has talked about the impressive play from DT Khyiris Tonga. When the Patriots signed Tonga to a one-year, $2.7 million contract, no one expected him to become one of the most impactful players on the defense. Tonga has undoubtedly outperformed his contract, and the Patriots must do everything in their power to lock him down in New England with a long-term deal.
Patriots Must Prioritize Re-Signing Khyiris Tonga This Offseason
Heading into the offseason, the Patriots emphasized bolstering their defensive line with the signings of Harold Landry III, K’Lavon Chaisson, Williams, and Tonga. The Patriots' defense was among the worst teams against the run, ranking 23rd in rushing yards allowed per game (131.4) last season.
This year, the Patriots have greatly improved against the run, as they’re tied-fifth in rushing yards allowed (95.1) and 11th in yards per carry (4.1), as of Sunday afternoon. This is in part because Tonga specializes in being a run defender. Through 13 games, Tonga has been a solid backup behind Christian Barmore and Williams, recording 21 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and two pass deflections.
Although his 51.5 Pro Football Focus run grade may indicate that he hasn’t been doing well, it doesn’t take into account what his presence does for the rest of the team. With Tonga in the game, opposing teams have to take him in the middle, leaving an opportunity for other players to make plays.
Tonga is primarily used in running situations, but he’s surprisingly done a fine job against the pass. On just 173 passing snaps, Tonga has recorded 13 pressures and 11.7% pass rush win rate, which ranks 31st out of 128 defensive interior linemen.
Not only has Tonga served as a quality backup, but he also gives the Patriots an option as an extra blocker in running situations. The Patriots have used Tonga’s 6’4”, 338-pound frame in their running game, which helped seal their win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tonga took out multiple defenders, which freed a hole for Henderson to score a 69-yard touchdown.
With Tonga becoming a crucial member of the team’s success this season, the Patriots must work on a long-term deal with him in the offseason.
Looking at Shelby Harris and Roy Robertson-Harris, both of whom are similar players to Chaisson, they both signed two-year, $9 million contracts with their respective teams. With teams always looking for rotational linemen, Tonga could be in line to receive a similar contract to these two.
Currently, the Patriots rank 10th in cap space with $58.7 million, according to Spotrac. In other words, they have no excuse not to re-sign Tonga before he hits free agency in March.