Chiefs nose tackle Khyiris Tonga is playing almost as much offense as Travis Hunter
Jaguars cornerback/wide receiver Travis Hunter has been much-hyped for his status as a two-way player, first as a Heisman Trophy winner at Colorado and now in the NFL.
Travis Hunter, a Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback and wide receiver, has gained significant attention for his versatility on both sides of the ball. However, another two-way player this season has received less hype: Kansas City Chiefs nose tackle and fullback Khyiris Tonga. Tonga has started every game on defense and has only played limited offensive snaps, picking up just two carries and one first down.
In comparison, Hunter has played a little more offense, logging 6.8 percent of the Jaguars' offensive snaps, whereas Tonga has accounted for 4.2 percent of the Chiefs' offensive plays. Despite their differences, both players have been utilized in similar roles this season, with Hunter capable of playing both wide receiver and cornerback, while Tonga is primarily used as a situational fullback on short-yardage situations, in addition to his defensive responsibilities.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid signed Tonga to a three-year, $21 million contract, increasing his offensive role this season, including blocking and running the ball. Tonga expressed his excitement about playing in the Chiefs' offense, even running a route on a fourth-down touchdown pass. He is open to doing anything in Reid's offense to help the team win, including potentially throwing the ball on a trick play.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.