2024: Kadarius Toney’s Uncertain Future with the Kansas City Chiefs

An Unfulfilled Promise

When the Kansas City Chiefs acquired wide receiver Kadarius Toney in a trade with the New York Giants during the 2022 season, there was optimism that they had secured a player with the potential to become their top receiving threat. Toney’s talent and affordable rookie contract, with more than two years remaining on its original four-year term, made him an attractive addition to the Chiefs’ offense. However, the 2023 season has raised questions about Toney’s future with the team.

Limited Playing Time and Disappointing Production

Since joining the Chiefs, Toney has struggled to make a significant impact on the field. He has appeared in only one game, a Week 15 victory over the New England Patriots, where he had a glaring drop that resulted in an interception. Since then, he has missed six consecutive games due to a combination of injuries and personal reasons.

Toney’s limited playing time has also hindered his production. In the games he has participated in, he has only accumulated 27 receptions for 169 yards, averaging a mere 6.3 yards per reception. These numbers fall well short of the expectations for a player expected to be the team’s number one receiver.

Personal Reasons and Contract Considerations

Adding to the uncertainty surrounding Toney’s future with the Chiefs is the recent designation of “personal reasons” as a factor in his absence from the team. This designation raises questions about his commitment to the team and his overall well-being.

Toney’s contract status further complicates matters. He is under contract for the 2024 season at a base salary of $2.53 million. The Chiefs have the option to exercise a fifth-year option by early May, but it seems unlikely that they will do so given his recent struggles and inconsistent availability.

Assessing Toney’s Future Prospects

The Chiefs have shown patience with Toney, giving him multiple opportunities to prove himself despite his drops and other mistakes. However, there comes a point when enough is enough. The Giants reached that conclusion after just a year and a half and twelve regular-season games with Toney. The Chiefs may be approaching the same decision after a similar timeframe.

Considering Toney’s limited playing time, underwhelming production, and personal issues, it would not be surprising if the Chiefs part ways with him before the 2024 season. The team has every reason to make one last effort to help him get his career back on track, but if he continues to struggle, they may ultimately decide that it’s time to move on.

Looking Ahead for the Chiefs’ Receiving Corps

If the Chiefs do decide to release Toney, they will need to address their wide receiver position in the offseason. They have a few options to consider, including re-signing JuJu Smith-Schuster, who is set to become a free agent, or exploring the free agent market for other potential targets. The team could also look to their younger receivers, such as Skyy Moore and Justin Watson, to step up and fill the void left by Toney’s potential departure.

Ultimately, the Chiefs’ decision regarding Toney’s future will depend on a variety of factors, including his health, commitment, and overall performance. If he can overcome his recent struggles and demonstrate his true potential, he could still have a place with the team. However, if his issues persist, the Chiefs may have no choice but to move on and focus on other receiving options.