Matt Nagy Gives Big Kadarius Toney Endorsement During OTAs
By Joe Summers
Kadarius Toney's long-term future with the Chiefs remains unclear entering the last year of his rookie deal, though it sounds like he's got plenty of fans in the building.
Brett Veach has called him the team's most talented receiver and now offensive coordinator Matt Nagy sang Toney's praises during OTAs, even though he hasn't been at the optional practices.
With Rashee Rice potentially getting suspended at some point, Toney should have plenty of opportunities to make a splash this season despite last year's disappointing output.
Matt Nagy Calls Kadarius Toney 'Special' Prior to Minicamp
Nagy sounds genuinely excited about Toney's potential, noting how he now mentally "understands the foundation." Now, they just need to let "the simple plays be simple."
A former first-round pick, Toney has shown flashes of brilliance in his brief career but is far too inconsistent, whether due to injury or on-field play. He set a Super Bowl record with his legendary punt return against the Eagles but managed only 27 catches for 169 yards and one TD last season.
Toney dropped five passes in 2023 and Patrick Mahomes managed only a 66.7 passer rating when targeting him. It's obvious the organization believes in him. It's now up to him to deliver on that confidence.
Nagy spoke about the importance of the coaching staff "putting him in the right spot" and not overdoing it with him, saying Toney is "special" when he has the ball in his hands.
I'll be interested in Toney in the mandatory minicamp not only to see how he performs but also to see what his theoretical role might be. First-round WR Xavier Worthy is an excellent punt returner too, so Toney's value on special teams could be diminished.
For now, Toney enters his most important year yet if he wants to earn a big second contract.
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