In a season where the Miami Hurricanes nearly reached the College Football Playoff National Championship, freshman wideout Malachi Toney popped up as a breakout star. Even though Miami lost to Indiana, Toney’s performance was electric—he set records and showed he’s a cornerstone for the program’s future.
Now, with an increase in NIL compensation on the horizon, Toney’s journey feels like it’s just getting started. The Hurricanes are already working to keep their new star away from the transfer portal.
Malachi Toney’s Record-Breaking Freshman Season
Toney’s freshman year at Miami was unforgettable. He hauled in 109 receptions, breaking both the single-season program record and the ACC freshman record.
His performance in the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Indiana—10 catches for 122 yards and a touchdown—really cemented his reputation as a rising star. That game felt like a coming-out party for Toney.
Key Statistics
Here’s how Toney’s season stacked up:
- 1,211 receiving yards
- 10 touchdowns
- Big moments, like a game against Florida State where he posted 107 yards and two touchdowns
NIL Compensation and Future Prospects
Toney’s wild freshman season didn’t just earn him headlines—it’s also set him up for a big jump in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) compensation. One source familiar with the negotiations says Toney’s on track to be among the highest-paid players at his position by 2026.
That puts him right up there with names like Cam Coleman from Texas and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. It’s a huge deal for a guy just getting started.
Building a Brand
Off the field, Toney’s been busy too. He’s landed an NIL deal with Leaf Trading Cards and recently became the first signature collegiate athlete for Hellstar, a high-end fashion brand out of Los Angeles.
These partnerships don’t just pad his bank account—they help him build a personal brand. He’s quickly becoming a marketable name in college football, and honestly, that’s half the battle these days.
Miami’s Strategic Moves
Keeping Toney in Miami orange and green is a top priority. Offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson made it clear that Toney was the team’s “first priority outside of quarterback” for their 2026 plans.
With the transfer portal always looming, the Hurricanes are determined not to lose their key players—especially with an extra portal window open for Miami and Indiana athletes right now.
Transfer Portal Dynamics
The main transfer portal window just closed, but players from Miami and Indiana get a five-day NCAA extension if they want to jump ship. Indiana’s already lost 10 players to the portal, while Miami’s seen eight departures and could lose more this week.
Honestly, keeping Toney out of the portal is make-or-break for Miami’s ACC title hopes and their shot at another playoff run next season.
Looking Ahead
Toney’s gearing up for his sophomore year, and expectations are through the roof. He’ll be on just about every preseason watchlist, and he’s already a favorite for the Biletnikoff Award, which goes to the nation’s top receiver.
He’s got a knack for slipping tackles and turning on the jets at the second level—he’s easily one of the most exciting players to watch next season. If you’re a Miami fan, you’re probably already counting down the days.
High Expectations
From his breakout against Florida State to clutch plays in the playoffs, Toney’s set a high bar. Miami’s creative use of him as a decoy in big moments has added another layer to his game.
As he keeps developing, it’s hard not to imagine his role in Miami’s offense only getting bigger and more dynamic. The kid’s just getting started—who knows what’s next?
Conclusion
Malachi Toney’s freshman year really turned heads, both for Miami Hurricanes fans and anyone watching college football. He smashed some records and landed a few big NIL deals along the way.
There’s a lot of buzz about his future, and honestly, it’s hard not to get swept up in it. Miami’s hoping to keep the momentum, maybe even chase down an ACC title or a playoff spot.
Keeping Toney around might just be the secret ingredient. If you’re curious for more, check out the full article on CBS Sports.
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