FOXBOROUGH – The Patriots have two high-priced marquee players that anchor their defensive line with Milton Williams and Christian Barmore.

Little did anyone realize that the Patriots also added a third impact player last offseason when they signed Khyiris Tonga to a one-year contract. As a run-stuffing defensive tackle, the veteran won’t always fill up the stat sheet. However, Tonga made an impact for the Patriots this past season, and the defense was better with him in it.

That’s why Tonga could be one of the Patriots’ priorities this offseason when free agency begins in March.

On Tuesday, the veteran told MassLive he’d like to return to New England for the 2026 season, but also recognizes that it’s not certain.

“Oh yeah, for sure,” Tonga said. “This was special, and to be able to come back, man, would be cool. But you know how this goes, so we’ll see. But yeah, just grateful for my time here.”

Tonga turned out to be one of the team’s biggest surprises during their remarkable 2025 season. When he signed, it was thought he’d provide depth as a run-stuffing nose tackle. However, Tonga was so solid that he started eight of 14 games played in the regular season.

The combination of Williams, Barmore, and Tonga proved to be formidable against most offenses. The Patriots finished sixth in the NFL in rushing defense. Tonga posted 24 tackles, two quarterback hits, and two pass breakups.

He also helped on offense as a fullback. The 29-year-old played 14 offensive snaps in five games during the regular season. Tonga also lined up as a fullback for four snaps in the playoffs, against Houston and Denver.

In the playoffs, Tonga finished with seven tackles, two quarterback hits, and a sack.

“This season was fun,” Tonga said. “I’ve enjoyed my time with everyone in this locker room, from players to coaches to everyone that takes care of us – trainers, staff. It’s been a real fun year for me.

“But you know winning is always fun, and winning in this league is so hard. So yeah, super fun year for me.”

A seventh-round pick in 2021, Tonga played for Chicago, Minnesota, and Arizona over the last four seasons. After playing well last season, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him land a longer-term contract.