Insider Notes 'Real Chance' Important Patriots Free Agent Signs Elsewhere

The New England Patriots have some key players hitting free agency, including Khyiris Tonga, who broke out as a very important player last season.

Tonga signed a one-year deal with the Patriots in the offseason. He ended up playing a role on offense, defense and special teams, even though he was not a regular starter. He managed to play a career-high 337 defensive snaps and played 14 snaps on offense as well. However, as a free agent, he figures to draw plenty of interest.

According to MassLive’s Mark Daniels, there is mutual interest in a return, but Tonga’s return is far from a guarantee. Tonga and the Patriots reportedly have tried getting a deal done already.

“According to a source, the Patriots and Tonga were close on a contract extension before the playoffs,” Daniels wrote on Friday. “That deal never materialized, falling apart at the last minute. The two parties talked again in Indianapolis, but couldn’t come to an agreement because Tonga’s price tag has gone up following the playoff run.”

Tonga did not light up the box score on a weekly basis, but he was an important part of the Patriots. Given what he put on tape this season, many teams are expected to try to sign him.

“The veteran had his best season in Foxboro, impacting the defensive line while also playing fullback on offense,” wrote Daniels. “He’s expected to have multiple suitors in free agency. For that reason, the Patriots’ original deal, which was close, is no longer in the ballpark for what the defensive tackle might make in free agency. The Patriots aren’t done negotiating with Tonga, but there’s a real chance he lands with another team in the coming weeks.”

Tonga played a limited role on offense, but his size made him an excellent blocker at times. In Week 10, he was on the field for TreVeyon Henderson’s game-sealing 69-yard touchdown. He took out multiple defenders on the edge to spring Henderson free. He may not be easy to replace, but the Patriots may be forced to try.