Kadarius Toney #19 of the Kansas City Chiefs
As the NFL’s regular season opener approaches, teams across the league are preparing for one of the most challenging tasks of the offseason: trimming their rosters down to 53 players. The Kansas City Chiefs, led by head coach Andy Reid, are no exception and face several difficult decisions in the coming days as they look to finalize a roster capable of defending their Super Bowl title.
With one of the most talented squads in the NFL, the Chiefs have invested heavily in their receiving corps to bolster quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ supporting cast. However, despite sinking significant draft capital and cap space into this area, the numbers game may push a few familiar names off the roster, including one former first-round pick: wide receiver Kadarius Toney.
Kadarius Toney’s Uncertain Future
Toney, who played a pivotal role in Kansas City’s 2023 Super Bowl win, has otherwise had an underwhelming stint with the team. The Chiefs acquired him from the New York Giants in a mid-season trade in 2022, hoping his explosiveness could add a new dimension to their offense. But injuries and inconsistency have marred his time in Kansas City.
NFL analyst Ian Valentino of *The 33rd Team* recently speculated that Toney could be a surprise cut as the Chiefs prepare to finalize their roster. Valentino noted that the Chiefs have “proactively added” promising talents like Marquise Brown and Xavier Worthy this offseason, creating a crowded and competitive wide receiver room. While Brown’s injury may sideline him for a few weeks, Valentino argues that Toney’s struggles to contribute consistently could seal his fate.
“Speed is always valuable, but Toney’s inability to consistently contribute the way Kansas City wants him to can’t be ignored,” Valentino said. “The Chiefs might be better off poaching another player off the waiver wire and relying on Worthy and Brown for explosive plays.”
A Former First-Rounder’s Disappointing Journey
Toney was originally drafted by the New York Giants with the 20th overall pick in 2021 but never lived up to the expectations that come with such a high selection. Since entering the league, the versatile playmaker has managed just 82 receptions for 760 yards and three touchdowns over four seasons. Despite flashes of brilliance, his career has been defined by injuries and missed opportunities.
With the Chiefs focused on remaining competitive at every position, Toney’s future in Kansas City hangs in the balance. While his contributions in the Super Bowl can’t be overlooked, the coaching staff’s priority is ensuring that Mahomes has reliable options on the field week in and week out. Whether Toney will be part of that group is a decision that will unfold in the coming days.
The Pressure of Roster Cutdowns
The Chiefs aren’t alone in facing difficult choices. Across the NFL, general managers and coaching staffs are under pressure to cut rosters down to the required 53 players before the regular season kicks off. Kansas City, which opens the season with high expectations and a championship-caliber roster, is no different.
With young receivers like Skyy Moore emerging as versatile special teamers and capable offensive contributors, and new additions competing for spots, Toney’s future is one of many intriguing storylines to watch as roster cutdown day approaches.
In the end, Toney’s fate — like many others — will be determined by whether the Chiefs believe they have better, more reliable options as they gear up for another Super Bowl run.
