Image Source: NBC Sports
Travis Hunter has earned plenty of attention for his rare two-way role with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he is not the only NFL player contributing on both sides of the ball this season. Kansas City Chiefs nose tackle and fullback Khyiris Tonga is quietly producing a similar statistical footprint, even though his offensive responsibilities are far more limited.
According to NBC Sports, both players have started every game on defense while also seeing occasional offensive snaps. Hunter has played 6.8 percent of Jacksonville’s offensive snaps, while Tonga has appeared on 4.2 percent of Kansas City’s offensive plays. The difference is small enough to create an intriguing comparison between two very different players.
Travis Hunter and Khyiris Tonga Create a Surprising NFL Comparison
Hunter entered the NFL with a reputation as a genuine two-way star. The former Colorado standout won the Heisman Trophy while playing wide receiver and cornerback, and the Jaguars have consistently discussed his potential to become a full-time contributor at both positions.
Tonga’s role is much more specialized. He is primarily a starting defensive lineman, but the Chiefs have also used him as a situational fullback in short-yardage situations. Through the season’s opening games, Tonga has recorded two carries, while Hunter has made two catches. Both players have also picked up one first down.
- Hunter has played 6.8 percent of the Jaguars’ offensive snaps.
- Tonga has played 4.2 percent of the Chiefs’ offensive snaps.
- Both players have contributed as starters on defense.
- Each has recorded two offensive touches and one first down.
Why the Chiefs Are Expanding Khyiris Tonga’s Offensive Role
The Chiefs’ use of Tonga began during Mike Vrabel’s time with the New England Patriots. Vrabel, a former defensive player who occasionally lined up on offense during his career, introduced Tonga to the blocking fullback role last season. Tonga played 14 offensive snaps for New England in that campaign.
After signing a three-year, $21 million contract with Kansas City, Tonga has seen his offensive opportunities increase. The Chiefs are using him not only as a blocker but also as a potential ball carrier and receiving threat in carefully designed situations.
Tonga described the experience of joining Patrick Mahomes and Kenneth Walker in the offensive huddle as “super cool” during an interview shared by the Chiefs. He said the moment was exciting but admitted he was focused on avoiding a mistake and making his assignment count.
That assignment has included helping create space for Walker, whom Tonga referred to as “K9.” The defensive lineman has embraced the unusual responsibility, showing that his value to Kansas City extends beyond stopping opposing rushing attacks.
Explosive Possibilities in Andy Reid’s Offense
The Chiefs have already shown that Tonga can be part of more creative formations. In Week 2, he ran a route on a fourth-and-goal play that ended with a touchdown pass to Jalen Royals. Tonga said he was ready to catch the ball if Mahomes looked his way, but he was relieved when the quarterback chose another target.
“I was just making sure I didn’t drop it,” Tonga said. “Look it in if it came to me.”
He even expressed a willingness to throw the ball if Andy Reid ever calls his number on a trick play. Tonga joked that having Mahomes available makes him hopeful he will not be asked to make the throw, but he said he would be prepared if necessary.
Beyond defense and offense, Tonga has also played 19 snaps on special teams this season. His willingness to contribute wherever needed has helped make him a valuable role player for the Chiefs.
What the Two Way Usage Means for the NFL
The comparison does not suggest that Tonga and Hunter have identical jobs. Hunter is being developed as a potential full-time receiver and cornerback, while Tonga is primarily a defensive starter with occasional offensive assignments.
Still, the numbers reveal how unusual modern NFL personnel usage can be. A player does not need to take dozens of offensive snaps to influence a game or force defenses to prepare for another possibility. For Jacksonville, Hunter’s flexibility could become a major offensive and defensive advantage. For Kansas City, Tonga’s size, strength and familiarity with the line of scrimmage give Reid another short-yardage weapon.
As the season continues, both players will remain worth watching. Hunter represents the headline-making version of two-way football, while Tonga offers a more unconventional example of how creativity and versatility can help an NFL team win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Travis Hunter a full-time two-way player?
Not yet. The Jaguars have said Hunter has the ability to play extensively at wide receiver and cornerback, but his offensive workload remains limited compared with a traditional starting receiver.
What position does Khyiris Tonga play for the Chiefs?
Tonga is a starting nose tackle for Kansas City. He also lines up as a situational fullback in short-yardage and other specialized offensive packages.
How many offensive snaps has Khyiris Tonga played?
Tonga has played 4.2 percent of the Chiefs’ offensive snaps this season, according to the NBC Sports report.
How does Tonga compare with Travis Hunter statistically?
Tonga has two carries and one first down, while Hunter has two catches and one first down. Hunter has played slightly more offensive snaps overall.
