Tonga Kofe Released from Leicester Tigers to Join Legion
California Legion has signed USA Eagle's prop Tonga Kofe for the 2026 season, following a release from English Premiership Powerhouse, the Leicester Tigers, where the Eagle signed in 2025.
Following his stint in the UK, Kofe dominated for two seasons with the Utah Warriors, where he developed into one of Major League Rugby’s most physical front-row players. During the 2025 campaign, he started 14 of his 16 appearances, scored two tries, and helped lead Utah to the Western Conference Final.
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His performances earned All-MLR Second XV honors along with three MLR Team of the Week selections. Kofe also recorded more than 100 tackles during the season while establishing himself as a powerful presence in the scrum.
The Oregon native first joined the Warriors through the Utah Selects pathway in 2023 before making his MLR debut during the 2024 season. He was named Utah Warriors Newcomer of the Year that season after making six appearances off the bench.
Kofe’s strong play at the professional level led to national team recognition in 2025. He earned selection to the USA Eagles for their July test series and made his international debut in a 36–17 victory over Belgium, becoming Eagle No. 587.
Before focusing fully on rugby, Kofe was a standout multi-sport athlete in Oregon. He won the PIL Defensive Player of the Year award in football and captured back-to-back Oregon state wrestling championships in 2013 and 2014. He later attended Portland State University, where he continued his football career.
Now joining Legion, Kofe adds international experience and front-row power as the club builds toward the 2026 season.
