Chiefs Release Wide Receiver Kadarius Toney

The Kansas City Chiefs have decided to release wide receiver Kadarius Toney, according to an official report by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. This decision comes as teams approach the deadline for roster cuts to 53 players.

Toney’s release marks a significant turn in his career, especially following his notable contributions to the Chiefs during Super Bowl LVII, where his 65-yard punt return was pivotal for the team’s victory against the Philadelphia Eagles. Toney also scored a touchdown during that game.

<pDespite his remarkable play in the Super Bowl, Toney struggled with consistency and injuries during his time with the team. He missed the entirety of training camp due to a torn meniscus and was unable to reclaim a prominent role in the offense upon his return, catching only 27 passes in the current season.

The Chiefs had high hopes for Toney to step up as a leading receiver in 2023, but his performance did not meet expectations, leading to his release. Teams now have the opportunity to claim him off waivers, taking on his salary of $2.53 million for the 2024 season, which is the final year of his rookie contract.

In an effort to strengthen their roster, particularly at the tight end position, the Chiefs have also acquired tight end Jake Hendershot from the Dallas Cowboys for a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Hendershot, who went undrafted in 2022, has spent two seasons with the Cowboys.