Who is Malachi Toney? Miami Hurricanes’ 17-year-old freshman making waves

A lightning-fast rise ignited the Miami Hurricanes’ season opener, true freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney emerged as a breakout star, leaving fans and analysts buzzing. At just 17 years old, Toney delivered a commanding performance, catching six passes for 82 yards and a touchdown against top-ranked Notre Dame. Off the field, curiosity swirled about his lineage. Here’s your in-depth profile of who Malachi Toney is, from his impressive debut to his family background and rising star status.

Freshman Phenomenon: A Debut for the Ages

In his first collegiate game, Malachi Toney led Miami receivers with six receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown in a thrilling 27–24 victory over No. 6 Notre Dame. Head coach Mario Cristobal praised him as a “secret weapon,” highlighting Toney’s maturity and work ethic. “He approaches the game as if he’s a fifth or sixth-year NFL vet,” Cristobal said. Quarterback Carson Beck echoed that sentiment, saying Toney’s first-in, last-out mentality has made him better.

Who Is Malachi Toney? Background & Prep Credentials

Toney attended American Heritage High School in Plantation, Florida, where he ranked among the nation’s top wide receiver prospects. He reclassified from the 2026 to the 2025 class and earned notable accolades, including the Nat Moore Award (South Florida’s top WR) and Florida’s 4A-1A Offensive Player of the Year as a senior, with 52 receptions, 1,008 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Despite multiple offers from powerhouse programs, Toney committed to the University of Miami, a home-town choice that feels momentous given his rapid impact in fall camp and early season play.

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Family Matters: No Relation to Kadarius Toney

Despite sharing the surname, Malachi Toney is not related to former NFL standout Kadarius Toney. That curiosity was quickly addressed in social media and reports.

Instead, his actual father is a different Antonio Brown, who played in the NFL in the early 2000s for teams like the Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins. A Reddit follower corroborated this in the r/CFB discussion:

“No, but Antonio Brown is his father (not that one tho lol)”.

Toney also revealed personal motivations, including honoring his late aunt Reba, who passed away from cancer in August 2024. He credits his mother and aunt for pushing him forward amid financial hardship.

Accolades, Expectations & Spotlight

Coach Mario Cristobal labeled Toney special for his NFL-level approach to preparation. Carson Beck, the veteran quarterback, noted Toney’s maturity and daily grind, from arriving at 5 a.m. to being the last in the facility, attrib­uting his own improvement to the freshman’s presence.

Toney’s debut isn’t just a dazzling stat line, it’s a statement of future potential. Analysts in Season Preview discussions name him a breakout candidate among Miami’s receiving corps, one of the few bright spots amid turnover. In a high-stakes season with playoff aspirations, Toney’s growth could be instrumental.

Freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney is fast becoming a household name in college football. His dazzling debut at just 17, elite prep pedigree, relentless work ethic, and emotional backstory combine to make him a compelling narrative.