Kadarius Toney's three-year NFL career has been a rollercoaster, marked by flashes of brilliance and bouts of inconsistency. A striking talent, Toney continues to capture the imagination of fans and pundits alike, though his journey has been anything but smooth.
A Promising Start Hampered by Injuries
Coming into the league, Toney was drafted by the New York Giants, where he had an up-and-down rookie season. Initially used sparingly, Toney soon demonstrated his potential with a breakout performance that saw him haul in six catches for 78 yards. Yet, it was his 10-catch game for 189 yards that truly raised eyebrows. These standout performances, however, were quickly followed by injuries, a recurring theme in Toney’s career, causing him to struggle with consistency.
From Giants to Chiefs
After just a year and a half with the Giants, Toney was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs for third- and sixth-round picks. The move to a high-powered offense under the guidance of head coach Andy Reid seemed like a fresh start. Since joining the Chiefs, Toney has participated in 20 out of 31 regular-season and postseason games, indicating a more stable but still uneven presence on the field.
Super Bowl Highs and Opening-Week Lows
Toney's time with the Chiefs has been punctuated by moments of significant impact. His contributions during Super Bowl LVII were pivotal, making a notable punt return and a crucial touchdown catch. These moments showcased the kind of dynamic playmaking ability that keeps him in the conversation as a high-potential player.
However, his inconsistency was glaringly evident in the first week of last season when he dropped multiple passes against the Lions. Perhaps more frustrating for fans was the game against the Bills, where Toney negated his own game-winning touchdown with an offsides penalty, a mental mistake that underscored his ongoing battle with reliability.
The Chiefs' Commitment and Toney's Versatility
Despite these setbacks, the Chiefs remain committed to involving Toney more in their offense. Toney has even participated in running back drills during training camp, showcasing his versatility. Over his career, Toney has lined up in the backfield 25 times, indicating a willingness by coaching staffs to explore all avenues of his athleticism. This multifaceted approach dates back to his college days, where he was used as a running back or option quarterback 67 times.
On the ground, Toney has 21 carries for 119 yards and a touchdown in the NFL, including 31 yards on 11 carries last season. Yet, only two of those rushing attempts resulted in first downs—a statistic that underscores the mixed results of this experimentation.
Ultimately, the Chiefs' faith in Toney’s skills and the potential for more dynamic plays in the coming seasons provide a sense of cautious optimism. It’s a testament to Toney’s raw talent that despite the injuries and mental mistakes, he continues to be a focal point of discussions about the Chiefs' offensive strategies.
As Toney gears up for another season, the blend of his past experiences and the Chiefs' strategic changes could be the key to unlocking his full potential. Whether he finally finds his rhythm or continues on his rollercoaster career remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Kadarius Toney will continue to be one of the most intriguing players to watch in the NFL.