The Kansas City Chiefs have signed a new tight end, as they've inked Robert Tonyan to a contract, according to Tom Pelissero. This isn't going to be news that excites the fan base much, nor should it, but it's also not surprising to see the Chiefs adding depth at the tight end position.
Tonyan went undrafted out of Indiana State and spent the first five years of his career with the Green Bay Packers, tallying over 1,400 yards and scoring 17 touchdowns. His best year came in 2020 when he had 52 receptions for 586 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Since then, Tonyan has not gotten close to those numbers. He spent the 2023 season with the Chicago Bears and the 2024 season with the Minnesota Vikings and failed to have a single catch with the Vikings last year.
Tonyan will now leave the NFC North to join the Chiefs in the AFC West but it's doubtful he contributes much to the roster.
Chiefs sign Robert Tonyan as tight end depth
Travis Kelce is coming back for another year, making him the TE1. Behind him are Noah Gray, Jared Wiley, Anthony Firkser, and now Tonyan. Gray has proven to be the best option behind Kelce and that should continue to be the case in 2025.
Chiefs fans shouldn't expect much from Tonyan, as he's going to battle the other tight ends for the TE job this summer in training camp. Even if he wins the job, with Kelce and Gray paving the way, it's doubtful we see much from Tonyan.
Still, the Chiefs were wise to bring in more bodies at the position and we'll have to see if Tonyan can prove that he deserves a spot on the 53-man roster.