Explore why the Kansas City Chiefs have decided to waive Kadarius Toney. Delve into his injury struggles, notable mistakes during the 2023 season, and the impact of his release on the team’s strategy. Get a comprehensive breakdown of Toney’s career statistics and key moments
Overview of Kadarius Toney’s Career with the Chiefs
| Year | Team | Acquisition | Contract Status | Injuries | Games Played | Catches | Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Kansas City Chiefs | Traded from New York Giants | Fifth-year option declined | Meniscus Tear, Various Injuries | 13 | 27 | 169 | 1 |
| 2023 | Kansas City Chiefs | – | – | 19 Injury Reports | 13 | 27 | 169 | 1 |
Reasons Behind the Chiefs’ Decision
- Disappointing 2023 Season
Kadarius Toney’s 2023 season was marked by injuries and inconsistent performance. He missed a significant portion of training camp due to a meniscus tear and struggled throughout the season. - Key Injuries and Setbacks
- Training Camp: Toney tore his meniscus while fielding kicks, leading to missed time and surgery.
- Season Opener: An errant deflection contributed to a critical loss against the Detroit Lions.
- Season Performance: Toney was listed on the injury report for 19 out of 21 games, including the postseason.
3. Notable Mistakes and Missed Opportunities
- Week 14 vs. Buffalo Bills: Toney appeared to score a decisive touchdown but was penalized for being offside, which led to a loss.
- Week 15 vs. New England Patriots: Another critical mistake with a deflected pass led to an interception, further impacting his playing time.
Career Statistics with the Chiefs
| Total Games | Receptions | Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32 | 82 | 760 | 3 |
Conclusion: The Chiefs’ Strategic Move
The Kansas City Chiefs’ decision to waive Kadarius Toney reflects their need for reliable and consistent contributors. While Toney’s potential was evident, his injury history and on-field mistakes ultimately led to his release.