Leicester Tigers have secured the services of imposing USA international tighthead prop Tonga Kofe for the 2025/26 campaign.
The 29-year-old arrives from Major League Rugby team Utah Warriors. The Herriman based outfit topped the Western Conference standings in 2025.
Kofe will undoubtedly bring considerable bulk to the Tigers forward division. The 6’2, 143kg tighthead has represented the USA Eagles on three occasions since transitioning to rugby union following a background in American football and wrestling.
He made 16 appearances for Utah in the 2025 season, registering two tries and completing 128 tackles across 792 minutes of play.
The sizable front-rower played against England during the summer international window. He’s the most substantial prop at Welford Road since 149kg Nephi Leatigaga’s exit.
“Signing for Leicester Tigers is not just a new phase, it’s the culmination of years of dedication, difficulties, and commitments,” said Kofe. “This club embodies heritage, honour, and an unyielding benchmark, and I’m prepared to dedicate everything I possess to contribute to that.
“My journey to this point hasn’t been simple, and I bring that ambition with me each time I enter the field.”
He continued: “The Tigers boast the most supportive fans in the league — dedicated, steadfast, and vocal — and I eagerly anticipate performing before them and gaining their admiration by giving my all, consistently. Let’s get to work.”
Leicester head coach Geoff Parling commented: “Tonga is a prop who is relatively new to rugby but who we believe possesses significant potential. He’s remarkably physically powerful, but from conversations with his coaches in America, his eagerness to develop is particularly noticeable. We are genuinely excited to welcome Tonga, his wife, and their daughter, Lisa Rose, to Mattioli Woods Welford Road.”
