New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney was limited to just 10 games as a rookie. He missed time due to a variety of injuries and illness, which stretched back as far as his first minicamp with the team.
A similar situation has played out this summer with Toney limited due to hamstring and knee issues. And as recently as this week, head coach Brian Daboll was uncertain — albeit hopeful — if Toney would be able to suit up come Week 1.
“I’m hopeful. We’ll just take it one day at a time. He’s been getting better,” Daboll told reporters on Monday. “I think he’s getting close, so I’m hopeful.”
Toney was unable to play in a Week 3 preseason game against the New York Jets, so the uncertainty was warranted. But the second-year receiver has made enough strides in recent days that the Giants are now substantially more optimistic.
General manager Joe Schoen informed members of the media on Friday that Toney is expected to play against the Tennessee Titans come September 11.
“I’m excited to see Kadarius,” Schoen said. “I’m excited to see him get on the field in a game, in a meaningful opportunity, and know the playbook and make plays. We’re planning on him being ready on Sept. 11 when we go play Tennessee.”
Meanwhile, in Toney’s mind, all of the adversity is now behind him. He feels “ready to go” and similar to Schoen, expects to play against the Titans in Week 1.
“I feel good, I’m ready to go. I’m ready to go for Week 1,” Toney said. “I’m ready to go. I’m ready, I’ve been ready.”
During an abbreviated rookie season, Toney caught 39 passes for 420 yards. However, he punched more opponents (1) than he scored touchdowns (0).
