Chiefs Have Deployed Khyiris Tonga as Fullback
Kansas City has utilized the defensive tackle on offense in short-yardage situations.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Football
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The Kansas City Chiefs have integrated defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga into their offense as a fullback across the first two weeks of the season. Coaches are utilizing the defender in goal-line and short-yardage scenarios to help clear paths for running back Kenneth Walker III.
Why it matters
The team employs this creative personnel strategy to maximize physical mismatches near the goal line. By deploying defensive players in offensive roles, the Chiefs aim to gain leverage in critical situations where every yard counts.
Khyiris Tonga recorded a three-yard carry on a fourth-and-1 situation during his limited offensive usage. He signed a $21 million three-year contract during the 2026 offseason following a 2025 campaign where he earned a 67.2 Pro Football Focus grade.
The players
Khyiris Tonga
He is a defensive tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs who previously played for the New England Patriots.
Andy Reid
He serves as the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs and is responsible for team personnel strategies.
Kenneth Walker III
He is an NFL running back who benefits from the blocking schemes utilized by the Kansas City Chiefs.
Ben VanSumeren
He is an NFL player who was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs in August 2026.
Peter Woods
He is a rookie defensive lineman competing for playing time on the Kansas City Chiefs depth chart.
The details
Tonga played four snaps at fullback in both Week 1 and Week 2 of the 2026 season. The coaching staff uses his presence to create blocking lanes, while the team also recently signed Ben VanSumeren to bolster the depth of the roster.
Timeline
Khyiris Tonga played for the New England Patriots throughout 2025.
The Chiefs signed Khyiris Tonga during the 2026 offseason.
Ben VanSumeren was signed by the Chiefs in August 2026.
Tonga played four snaps at fullback during Week 1 of 2026.
Tonga played four snaps and recorded a carry in Week 2 of 2026.
Season Trajectory
This utilization of Khyiris Tonga reflects a broader tactical evolution where teams leverage defensive personnel to secure advantages in short-yardage situations. Such moves signal a focus on physical depth that could determine the effectiveness of the team in critical late-game scenarios.
The use of Tonga as a fullback changes the personnel grouping for fantasy owners tracking red-zone touches and rushing attempts for Kenneth Walker III. His role as a lead blocker suggests a commitment to a power-running style that impacts the team's efficiency on third and fourth-down conversions.
The takeaway
Using defensive players on offense creates unique physical mismatches that can surprise opposing defenses. Fans should watch for how these specialized roles evolve as the team integrates new depth pieces like Ben VanSumeren into the playbook.
Further reading
For more on the current team roster and tactical updates, visit the Kansas City Football page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
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