Khyiris Tonga
Khyiris Tonga is an American professional football nose tackle for the New England Patriots of the National Football League. He played college football for the BYU Cougars and was selected by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL draft.College career
Initially committed to Utah after high school, Tonga flipped to BYU after former Oregon State defensive coordinator Kalani Sitake was named the Cougars' head coach while Tonga was serving his two-year mission.
After a strong junior season where he made 45 tackles, Tonga was expected to be an NFL draft prospect, but announced he would return for his senior season.Professional career
Pre-draft
Tonga was praised by draft analysts for his ability to eat up space as a nose tackle, but was expected to be a day three prospect due to his age, short arms, and below-average hand size.Chicago Bears
Tonga was selected by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round, 250th overall, of the 2021 NFL draft. On June 2, 2021, Tonga signed his four-year rookie contract with Chicago. He was waived by the Bears on August 31, 2022.Atlanta Falcons
On September 5, 2022, Tonga was signed to the practice squad of the Atlanta Falcons.Minnesota Vikings
On October 5, 2022, Tonga was signed by the Minnesota Vikings off the Falcons practice squad.Arizona Cardinals
On March 15, 2024, Tonga signed with the Arizona Cardinals. He played in 13 games with one start, recording 22 tackles.On March 14, 2025, Tonga signed a one-year, $2.7 million contract with the New England Patriots. He played in 14 games with eight starts, recording 24 tackles. He would also take offensive snaps as a fullback.NFL career statistics
Regular season
Postseason
Personal life
Before enrolling at BYU, Tonga served a two-year mission for the [Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints] in Wichita, Kansas.