Kadarius Toney: From Gator Great to NFL Enigma

Kadarius Toney, a name synonymous with electrifying potential and frustrating inconsistency, carved a unique path through the world of football. From his dazzling displays at the University of Florida to his Super Bowl-winning moment with the Kansas City Chiefs, Toney's career has been a rollercoaster of breathtaking highs and head-scratching lows. This article delves into Toney's college career, exploring the moments of brilliance that made him a highly touted NFL prospect.

High School Quarterback Turned Gator Playmaker

Toney's journey began at Blount High School in Eight Mile, Alabama, where he excelled as a dual-threat quarterback. In his junior and senior seasons, he amassed a combined 6,588 passing yards, 1,790 rushing yards, and 84 total touchdowns, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability. These impressive performances earned him a three-star recruit rating and scholarship offers from several schools, including South Carolina, Georgia Tech, South Alabama, and Alabama. Ultimately, Toney chose to play for the Florida Gators.

Despite his success as a quarterback in high school, Florida recruited Toney as a versatile athlete, with the understanding that he would have the opportunity to contribute in various roles, even if he didn't win the quarterback job. This proved to be a shrewd decision, as Toney's unique skill set translated seamlessly to the college game.

A Versatile Weapon in Gainesville

Toney arrived in Gainesville in 2017 and immediately began showcasing his versatility. During his first three seasons, he played in a reserve role, contributing as a wide receiver, running back, wildcat quarterback, and special teams player. While his opportunities were limited, he consistently improved on a per-game basis, hinting at the potential that lay within.

Freshman Year (2017)

In his third career game against Kentucky, Toney provided a glimpse of his capabilities: 4 catches for 35 yards, 2 rushes for 39 yards (including a 36-yard touchdown run), and a 50-yard completion. Out of seven total touches, he gained a combined 124 scrimmage yards. However, Toney's freshman season was also marred by injuries, a recurring theme throughout his career. He missed three games due to a shoulder injury sustained against LSU, and while he played in the rivalry game against Georgia, he was limited and re-aggravated the injury, causing him to miss another game.

Sophomore Year (2018)

Toney played 12 of 13 Florida games, missing one due to suspension. He averaged nearly 11 yards per touch on 46 touches. He also stepped up his kick return game, got into the punt return game (by which I mean he returned exactly one punt on the entire season), and even threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Moral Stephens in a 13-6 win over Mississippi State in Starkville.

Junior Year (2019)

Injuries struck again, with a shoulder injury sidelining him for two months. When he returned, he wasn’t exactly the same guy. He could be that guy again, but really nobody knows if he ever will be.

The Breakout Season: 2020

Toney's senior season in 2020 was nothing short of spectacular. He finally broke out as a star, leading the Gators' potent offense with 70 receptions for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also contributed as a runner, with 19 carries for 161 yards and a touchdown, and as a returner, with 294 combined punt and kick return yards, including a punt return touchdown.

His dominant performance against Vanderbilt was a highlight, as he became the first Gator since Reidel Anthony in 1996 to record over 100 receiving yards and 75 return yards in a single game. Toney's exceptional play earned him First-team All-SEC honors and solidified his status as a top NFL prospect.

Kadarius Toney's Florida Stats Overview

Career receiving yards: 120 catches for 1,590 yards (13.3 yards per catch) for 12 touchdowns
Career rushing yards: 66 rushes for 580 yards (8.8 yards per carry) and two touchdowns
Career return yards: 28 returns for 471 yards (16.8 yards per return) and one touchdown
Career passing yards: 3 of 6 passing (50%) for 82 yards and one touchdown

In 38 appearances with the Gators, Toney recorded 2,641 all-purpose yards: 120 career receptions for 1,590 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, 580 rushing yards and two touchdowns and 471 kick and punt return yards (plus a punt return touchdown). He also completed 3 of 6 passing attempts for 82 yards and another score.

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Year-by-Year Breakdown

Receiving Stats:

2017: 15 catches for 152 yards (10.1 yards per catch)
2018: 25 catches for 250 yards (10.4 ypc) and one touchdown
2019: 10 catches for 194 yards (19.4 ypc) and one touchdown
2020: 70 catches for 984 yards (14.1 ypc) and 10 touchdowns

Rushing Stats:

2017: 14 carries for 120 yards (8.6 yards per carry) and one touchdown
2018: 21 carries for 240 yards (11.4 ypc)
2019: 12 carries for 59 yards (4.9 ypc)
2020: 19 carries for 161 yards (8.5 ypc) and one touchdown

NFL Draft and Early Career

Following his impressive senior season, Toney entered the 2021 NFL Draft and was projected to be a first- or second-round pick. NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein likened his route-running abilities to the quickness of a basketball player's one-on-one moves, noting his potential as a dangerous weapon with the ball in his hands.

Ultimately, Toney was selected by the New York Giants with the 20th overall pick. He signed a four-year contract worth $13.7 million, raising expectations for his impact on the team.

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