Leicester Tigers sign giant 143kg 'late to rugby' USA international

Leicester Tigers have signed hulking USA international tighthead prop Tonga Kofe ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The 29-year-old makes the move from Major League Rugby side Utah Warriors. The Herriman based side finished top of the Western Conference in 2025.

Kofe will certainly add size to the Tigers pack. The 6’2, 143kg tighthead has won three caps for the USA Eagles since switching to rugby union after a background in American football and wrestling.

He featured 16 times for Utah in the 2025 season, scoring two tries and making 128 tackles across 792 minutes.

The giant front-rower turned out against England during the summer. He’s the heaviest prop at Welford Road since the departure of 149kg Nephi Leatigaga.

“Joining Leicester Tigers is more than just a new chapter, it’s the result of years of hard work, setbacks, and sacrifices,” said Kofe. “This club represents tradition, pride, and a relentless standard, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got to be part of that.

“I haven’t taken the easy road to get here, and I carry that hunger with me every time I step onto the pitch.”

He added: “The Tigers have the best fans in the league — passionate, loyal, and loud — and I can’t wait to play in front of them and earn their respect by leaving it all out there, week in and week out. Let’s work.”

Leicester head coach Geoff Parling said: “Tonga is a prop who is late to rugby but who we think has huge potential. He’s physically very strong, but from speaking to his coaches in America, it’s his willingness to learn that stands out. We are really looking forward to welcoming Tonga, his wife, and their daughter, Lisa Rose, to Mattioli Woods Welford Road.”