2021 NFL Draft: Florida WR Kadarius Toney taking game to the next level

Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney is an interesting 2021 NFL Draft prospect who is taking his game to the next level.

Quarterback Kyle Trask and tight end Kyle Pitts are getting all of the headlines, but they were not the only impressive offensive playmakers for the Florida Gators over the weekend. In Florida’s 51-35 victory over Ole Miss, Gators senior wide receiver Kadarius Toney caught five passes for 59 yards and a touchdown, and also piled up 55 rushing yards on only two carries.

Those numbers may not be eye-popping, but Toney undoubtedly showed significant improvement in the season opener. Toney has always been an exciting playmaker with the ball in his hands. In past years, the Gators did a nice job of scheming touches for Toney and allowing him to use his explosive speed and elusiveness to make plays in the open field. Through one game this season, Toney appears to have grown into a much more complete wide receiver.

On Saturday, the Gators trusted Toney with a much more expanded route tree than in the past. He looks much sharper as a route runner, showing the ability to use his athletic capabilities to create space from the defender. Toney was already and impressive playmaker after the catch. If he can now create space with his routes, his upside goes through the roof.

At worst, Toney has plenty of upside at the next level as a return specialist and guy who teams can scheme touches on the offensive side of the ball. However, he appears to be taking his game to the next level and becoming a much more well-rounded player. If this continues, his 2021 NFL Draft stock will undoubtedly rise.

It was just one game, but Florida showing more faith in Toney as an actual weapon at the wide receiver position is promising. He may only be a slot option at the next level, but Toney is an exciting talent who undoubtedly has exciting upside. Keep an eye on his progression as the SEC season unfolds.