With the continued evolution of a wide-open NFL offensive structure that values creating and manipulating space, two-down space-eating interior defensive lineman are becoming less and less valuable. However, there is still a role for the big uglies inside. Tonga did an outstanding job holding the point of attack for the Cougars. He is bull strong with a well put together, powerful build throughout his frame. He is a prototypical nose tackle in an odd-man front who can be overwhelming for opposing offensive linemen. Tonga does a really nice job anchoring at the point of attack, even against double-teams. He is a linear athlete with some surprising explosiveness, but not much in terms of flexibility. There are obvious limitations to him as a pass rusher, confined to being a pure bull-rusher with nothing resembling a pass-rush plan. His pad level can also be hit or miss, but he is so powerful that sometimes that isn’t even prohibitive to him making the play. While there isn’t a lot of upside as an every-down player, Tonga’s combination of size, strength and explosiveness could provide early playing time on base downs early in his career.
Has appeared in 50 career games for the Cougars, recording 130 total tackles, 15 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Was considered a three-star athlete by ESPN coming out of Granger High School in West Valley, Utah. Coached by Cecil Thomas at Granger. Served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Wichita, Kansas. Has a rugby background.
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