Robert Tonyan Rejoins Packers on One-Year Deal After Chiefs Tenure
Robert Tonyan is returning to the Green Bay Packers on a one-year contract after his brief stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, a move that could reshape the team's tight end depth heading into the 2025 season.
Robert Tonyan is returning to the Green Bay Packers on a one-year contract after playing for the Kansas City Chiefs. The deal includes a void year for salary-cap purposes and marks his second stint with the team.
Robert Joseph Tonyan Jr. has agreed to a one-year contract with the Green Bay Packers, sources confirmed to ESPN. The deal includes a void year that helps the team manage its salary cap. Tonyan began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent with the Detroit Lions in 2017. He played five seasons with the Packers from 2018 to 2022, earning recognition as one of the league’s top tight ends in 2020. After being released by Green Bay, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025 but was released later that year. The return of Tonyan to Green Bay signals a potential resurgence for the Packers’ offense. His history with Aaron Rodgers — who now plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers — adds narrative weight to the move. With the Steelers also expressing interest, Tonyan’s role in the team’s plans remains uncertain but could influence their depth at tight end.
Tonyan's return to Green Bay
Robert Tonyan rejoins the Green Bay Packers on a one-year deal, ESPN reported Saturday. The contract carries a void year that lets the team manage its salary-cap space while securing the tight end’s return. This marks Tonyan’s second stint with the Packers after five seasons from 2018 to 2022. He signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025 after being released by the Packers, then moved to the Pittsburgh Steelers later that year. Tonyan played college football at Indiana State and entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Detroit Lions in 2017. His best season came in 2020, when he ranked among the league’s top tight ends.
Tonyan's NFL journey and career highlights
Robert Joseph Tonyan Jr. began his professional career as an undrafted free agent with the Detroit Lions in 2017 after playing college football at Indiana State. He joined the Green Bay Packers in 2018 and became one of the team's most reliable tight ends, particularly during the 2020 season, which coincided with the Packers' 100th NFL season. Over five seasons with Green Bay, Tonyan recorded 184+ receptions for 2,050+ yards and 16 touchdowns. The Packers released him in 2025, ending his initial tenure. He signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs later that year, briefly working with the starting lineup and recording a standout catch during practice. After being released by the Chiefs in August 2025, Tonyan returned to the Packers on another one-year deal. He now aims to revive his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, hoping to leverage his connection with Aaron Rodgers.
Short-lived Chiefs chapter and league movement
Robert Joseph Tonyan Jr. signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025 after being released by the Green Bay Packers, reuniting with former Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He worked with the Chiefs' starting lineup during practices, splitting reps with Travis Kelce and Gray, and was noted for a standout one-handed catch during 7-on-7 drills. However, his tenure in Kansas City ended in August 2025, prompting a brief association with the Minnesota Vikings that did not result in a signing. Tonyan then joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, continuing his NFL career with the goal of leveraging his connection to Rodgers to revive his professional trajectory.
Looking ahead with the Steelers and future possibilities
Robert Joseph Tonyan Jr. has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers after his release from the Kansas City Chiefs, seeking to revive his career. He hopes to leverage a potential reunion with Aaron Rodgers, whom he believes could help the Steelers contend for a Super Bowl. A 2026 report noted his efforts to earn a roster spot with the Steelers through this connection, though no formal commitment has been made. Tonyan’s brief association with the Minnesota Vikings and prior practice work with the Chiefs remain part of his recent journey, but his immediate focus is on securing a role with the Steelers. His path forward hinges on proving his value in Pittsburgh’s offense while maintaining his ties to Rodgers and the broader goal of championship contention.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Robert Tonyan and which teams has he played for?
Robert Tonyan is an American professional football tight end who has played for the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs. He was released by the Packers in 2025 before signing with the Chiefs, and later joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also played college football at Indiana State and began his NFL career with the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2017.
When did Robert Tonyan sign with the Kansas City Chiefs?
Robert Tonyan signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025 after being released by the Green Bay Packers. The signing was confirmed by sources cited in reports from ESPN and other outlets.
Is Robert Tonyan currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers?
Yes, Robert Tonyan is currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he is attempting to revive his career. He was previously with the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs, and has expressed hope that a connection with Aaron Rodgers could help him earn a roster spot.
What was Robert Tonyan's role with the Chiefs in 2025?
In 2025, Robert Tonyan signed with the Kansas City Chiefs after being released by the Packers. He was working with the team's starting lineup during practice, splitting time with Travis Kelce and Gray, and made a standout one-handed catch during 7-on-7 drills, according to reports.
Did Robert Tonyan join the Minnesota Vikings?
Robert Tonyan was briefly associated with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, as he was considered as a potential starter during T.J. Hockenson's recovery from injury. However, no signing materialized, and his exact role or outcome with the team was not confirmed.
