Toney, selected No. 20 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, has pressure on him to produce.
The talent of Toney is there, how bad he wants it remains to be seen.
Last season, availability was Toney’s biggest opponent. He missed significant time in 2021 with several injuries and two positive tests for COVID-19.
Toney, when on the field, showed flashes of his dynamic skill set as a wide receiver.
There was a six-catch performance, on nine targets, for 78 yards in a Week 4 overtime win at New Orleans. Additionally, there was an eye-opening 10 catches for 189 yards in a Week 5 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Toney’s performance against the Cowboys earned him NFC Offensive Player of the Week.
He can be a playmaker with his speed and change of direction skills whenever the football is in his hands. He’s the type of gamechanger that starting quarterback Daniel Jones sorely needs in what’s likely his own make-or-break season.
“I think it’s huge to have him,’’ Jones said. “The times he was out there last year you saw what he can do, how special he can be with the ball in his hands. I think that adds a lot to our offense to have him out there. We need him. I think he’s done a great job in meetings, he’s done a great job picking it up and learning this system.”
Jones is right, the Giants need a healthy Toney — on the field and making plays.
“One of the things this offense does well is the ability to move guys around and put guys in different spots. Once he gets on the field, we’ll be able to see that and he gives us a special element.’’
Yes, when he gets on the field.
Toney has been limited in his offseason participation for organized team activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamp, which recently concluded.
Per multiple reports, Toney underwent minor knee surgery early in the offseason. All signs point towards him being 100 percent ready by training camp.
If the best ability is availability, first-year head coach Brian Daboll may have a red circle around Toney’s name.
Furthermore, there’s also a new front office, led by general manager Joe Schoen, which went ahead and selected wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
The significance in drafting Robinson is he has a similar skill set to that of what Toney brings to the table.
It’s important to remember, this is a new front office and coaching staff. There are no built-in allegiances for Toney. He must get on the field and show them he’s ready to more than just potential.
Toney’s playmaking ability gives the Giants a serious component to their offense. His availability, however, is a serious concern for this team.
For Toney, his latest setback will only give his critics more fuel. His progress in training camp will be a key storyline to watch.
Anthony Rushing is on Twitter @TonyRushingNY
Baseline Sports NY is on Twitter @Baseline_NY
