The Kansas City Chiefs made three big free agent signings on Monday in running back Kenneth Walker III, defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga, and safety Alohi Gilman.
Each of them will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact during the 2026 season. They are all joining position groups that have thinned out for the Chiefs during the offseason. On Thursday, the trio met with the local media for the first time.
New Kansas City Chiefs DL Khyiris Tonga Was Motivated by Chris Jones Upon First Meeting Him
GettyKansas City Chiefs DL Khyiris Tonga
When Tonga hit the podium, he discussed how his first meeting with star defensive lineman Chris Jones went.
“I am pumped to be able to come in and play next to Chris,” Tonga said. “I just met him for the first time [today] in the weight room, and he looks pretty mad about last season. I’m excited, I can’t wait to be able to help him out, and be able to help out the defense as much as I can.”
Jones expressed his excitement on X when the Chiefs signed Tonga, calling him a “dawg.”
Kansas City badly needed to bring in another quality defensive tackle to take some pressure off of Jones. He has faced constant double and triple-teams against opposing offensive lines over the past couple of years. Jones is still playing at a high level overall, but lack of help has hurt his recent production.
Tonga is a five-year NFL veteran who has bounced around with 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.
The Chiefs signed Tonga to a three-year, $21 million contract. 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 make for good insurance if he is slow to recover. When Norman-Lott is healthy and ready to go, he and Tonga could make up a dynamic duo.
Examining the Current State of the Chiefs’ Defense
GettyKansas City Chiefs cornerback Kader Kohou
Kansas City made a new free agent signing on Thursday, acquiring cornerback Kader Kohou, filling a huge need for the Chiefs’ defense. Kohou plays primarily in the slot, which is exactly what they needed as Nohl Williams and Kristian Fulton play mostly outside on the boundary. The Chiefs could still use a high draft pick on a cornerback, but at least have a solid trio to build upon.
Defensive end is by far their most glaring remaining need defensively. The Chiefs have very little to work with outside of George Karlaftis and Ashton Gillotte. They will very likely use one of their four top 100 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft on a defensive end, and could still add at least one proven veteran in free agency.
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