🚨 Foxborough, Massachusetts — The New England Patriots may be at risk of losing a key defensive contributor this offseason.
Defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga, who played an important role during New England’s recent Super Bowl run, is reportedly emerging as a top free-agent target for the Buffalo Bills.
A Breakout Season in New England
Tonga joined the Patriots last offseason on a one-year, $2.7 million contract, and he quickly became an impactful presence on the defensive line.
During the season, the veteran nose tackle:
- Started 8 games
- Recorded 24 tackles
- Played a key role in New England’s defensive rotation
His physical presence in the middle helped anchor the Patriots’ front during their deep playoff run.
In the postseason alone, Tonga added seven tackles and one sack, further strengthening his reputation as a reliable interior defender.
Bills Eye Tonga for New Defensive System
According to Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic, the Buffalo Bills could make a serious push to sign Tonga once free agency begins.
Buscaglia projects the Bills could offer the veteran a two-year contract worth approximately $8.5 million.
Buffalo’s interest reportedly stems from major defensive changes underway within the organization.
After a coaching shakeup that saw Sean McDermott replaced as head coach and Bobby Babich taking over as defensive coordinator, the Bills are expected to transition from a 4–3 defensive scheme to a 3–4 system.
That shift increases the importance of a traditional nose tackle, a role Tonga has proven capable of handling.
Why Tonga Fits Buffalo’s Plans
Adding Tonga could provide Buffalo with more flexibility along the defensive line.
His ability to occupy blockers in the middle could allow other defensive linemen, including Deone Walker, to move around the formation and attack offensive lines from different positions.
Tonga will turn 30 years old in July, but his recent performance suggests he still has plenty to offer teams looking for experience and physicality in the trenches.
A Divisional Battle in Free Agency
If Buffalo ultimately signs Tonga, it would mean the Patriots lose an important defender to a direct AFC East rival.
Divisional signings often add extra intrigue to free agency, especially when a player transitions from one contender to another within the same division.
NFL free agency officially begins March 11 at 4 p.m. ET, and Tonga’s future could quickly become one of the more interesting storylines for both teams.
For now, the Patriots must decide whether they are willing to match potential offers—or risk seeing one of their defensive contributors strengthen a division rival.
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