Just hours before the AFC Championship Game commenced, Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney took to Instagram Live and unleashed a profanity-laden tirade, leveling accusations at the team for allegedly fabricating the severity of his injuries.
Toney has been sidelined since his last appearance in Week 15 against the New England Patriots, grappling with lingering hip and ankle issues.
While he has occasionally participated in practice in a limited capacity, he has yet to receive medical clearance for game action. His absence from the AFC title game was attributed to his hip injury, as well as his desire to be present for the birth of his first daughter.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid addressed Toney’s situation and the Instagram Live video during his media session on Monday.
“Yeah, I actually haven’t seen it, but I heard people talk about it,” Reid said. “But yeah, he’ll be back out there and we’ll see how he does.”
When pressed about Toney’s claims, Reid unequivocally affirmed that the receiver’s absence in the last six games was solely due to his injuries. Furthermore, he stressed that Toney would soon return to the practice field.
“Obviously, he’s been on the injury report,” Andy Reid said. “That part is not made up by any means. He’s been working through some things. He’ll be back out there.”
It’s important to note that the NFL’s injury reporting system mandates that any player receiving treatment for an injury must be listed on the official injury report. Toney may not have been aware of this fact when he made his allegations.
The upcoming two weeks of practice will be crucial in determining whether Kadarius Toney can convince the team’s medical staff and coaching staff of his readiness for Super Bowl LVIII. His pivotal contributions against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII played a significant role in securing victory.
Despite Toney’s recent outburst and inconsistent on-field performance, his coaches and teammates continue to offer support, demonstrating their commitment to his development and potential contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs.
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