Kansas City Chiefs Decline Kadarius Toney's Fifth-Year Option After Injury-Plagued Season

The Kansas City Chiefs have declined to exercise the fifth-year option on wide receiver Kadarius Toney's rookie contract, leaving him with only one season remaining on his current deal. The decision comes after a disappointing 2023 season for Toney, who struggled with injuries and inconsistent performance throughout the year.

Toney, 25, was drafted by the New York Giants with the 20th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He played one full season with the Giants before being traded to the Chiefs in October 2022. Despite high expectations, Toney's tenure with the Chiefs has been marred by injuries, limiting his production and impact on the field.

In the 2023 season, Toney appeared in 13 games, recording 27 catches for 169 yards and one touchdown. He was listed on the Chiefs' weekly injury report for 19 of their 21 games, including the postseason. Toney's struggles began early in the season when he tore a meniscus in the first practice of training camp, requiring surgery and missing the remainder of camp.

Toney's inconsistent play was highlighted by several costly mistakes. In a one-point loss to the Detroit Lions, he deflected a catchable pass to a defender who returned it for atouchdown. Later in the season, Toney appeared to score the winning touchdown in a Week 14 game against the Buffalo Bills, but the play was wiped out because of an offside penalty, and the Chiefs lost the game.

Despite Toney's struggles, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach expressed belief in the young receiver's talent. "I don't think we ever stopped believing in him," Veach said. "I think people around the building like him. It's the injury bug. Hopefully, he gets some luck on his side and can stay healthy and can be the player that he was at Florida and the player that we've seen in spurts here."

The Chiefs' decision to decline Toney's fifth-year option comes amidst a series of moves to bolster their receiving corps. The team acquired wide receiver Marquise Brown in free agency and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. These additions have the potential to impact Toney's role and future with the team.

As Toney enters the final year of his rookie contract, he will need to prove his value to the Chiefs and showcase his ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently. With the team's recent investments in the wide receiver position, Toney faces increased competition for targets and playing time in the upcoming 2024 season.

Key Takeaways

• Kansas City Chiefs decline WR Kadarius Toney's 5th-year option.
• Toney's 2023 season was marred by injuries and inconsistent performance.
• In 2023, Toney played 13 games, recording 27 catches, 169 yards, and 1 TD.
• Chiefs GM Brett Veach believes in Toney's talent, citing injury issues.
• Toney enters final year of rookie contract, faces increased competition.