In a bold move to strengthen their offense ahead of a crucial Week 17 matchup, the Kansas City Chiefs have signed veteran tight end Robert Tonyan to their practice squad. Tonyan, who previously thrived alongside Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay, brings significant experience and a proven ability to excel in the red zone.
Over five seasons with the Packers, the 6-foot-5 tight end recorded 1,437 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns, including a breakout 2020 season where he posted 586 yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite recent struggles with the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings, Tonyan’s knack for finding the end zone remains a valuable asset to any offense.
With the Chiefs’ tight end depth decimated by injuries, Tonyan’s addition comes at a crucial time. Kansas City has been without key contributors, leaving only veteran Anthony Firkser as backup to Travis Kelce and Noah Gray. Tonyan offers immediate relief and adds a new dimension to quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ options as they head into the final stretch of the regular season.
Though new to the team, Tonyan could be thrust into action quickly, especially with the Chiefs frequently elevating a third tight end in recent weeks. The tight end’s postseason experience—8 receptions, 82 yards, and 1 touchdown in 4 playoff games—adds to his potential as a playoff contributor.
In another development, the Chiefs have opted not to claim former 1,000-yard receiver Diontae Johnson, who was claimed by the Houston Texans after a turbulent stint with the Steelers, Panthers, and Ravens. With Hollywood Brown’s return and the current state of their wide receiver room, Kansas City appears focused on what they have as they gear up for a postseason run.”
