Miami Hurricanes Recruiting: 4-star WR Malachi Toney takes a U-turn on his commitment decision from Mario Cristobal's program

By Aman Sharma

Modified Oct 29, 2024 17:50 GMT

In a pivotal moment for Miami Hurricanes football recruiting, four-star wide receiver Malachi Toney has recommitted to the University of Miami. Toney initially pledged to join the Hurricanes back in August 2023, as part of the 2026 recruiting class.

However, following his decision to reclassify to the Class of 2025, he reopened his recruitment and de-committed from Miami on October 3, 2024. He was exploring options with powerhouse programs such as Florida State, Alabama, Kentucky and Oregon.

Throughout his recruiting journey, Miami’s staff, led by receivers coach Kevin Beard and occasionally involving head coach Mario Cristobal, remained in constant communication with Toney. The wide receiver stands at 5-foot-10.5 and weighs 182 pounds.

Their commitment to keeping Toney close ultimately paid off as he made his way back to Coral Gables.

“It’s been the same,” Toney recently said of his relationship with Miami’s staff. “They’re still showing me love. It’s still a family. I still have my bonds with all of the coaches and stuff like that. It’s all the same.”

Toney’s return to the Hurricanes’ Class of 2025 became official following a weekend visit for Miami’s game against Florida State. Notably, he canceled a scheduled official visit to Kentucky, reinforcing his renewed commitment to Miami.

His return gives the Hurricanes three wideouts in their 2025 class, joining fellow recruits Joshua Moore from Pembroke Pines (West Broward) and Daylyn Upshaw from Phoenix City (Central). The three attended Miami's recent 36-14 victory over Florida State, symbolizing a strong class for Miami’s future.

Miami Hurricanes land standout receiver Malachi Toney, solidifying their offensive future

Malachi Toney has been a standout in South Florida this season, collecting 54 receptions for 964 yards and 12 touchdowns in just nine games.

This past weekend, he powered his team to their first-ever victory over Fort Lauderdale’s St. Thomas Aquinas, contributing nine catches for 130 yards, two touchdowns, two pass breakups and an interception.

Toney’s slot receiver playstyle has drawn comparisons to Miami’s Xavier Restrepo, highlighting his stocky build, precise routes and dependability.

Miami had prioritized Toney as a top 2025 target despite his reclassification from the 2026 class, keeping him engaged even after his decommitment. Though he visited Alabama before reopening his recruitment, no other program saw him on their campus afterward.

Expected to sign in the Early Signing Period on December 4, Toney plans to enroll in the summer, joining a promising roster of Miami WRs, including Ny Carr, Chance Robinson and Joshisa Trader.

Under offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson, Miami’s offense has been electric, ranking first nationally with 46.8 points per game and 560.8 total yards.

While Miami boasts the 11th-ranked recruiting class for 2025, they are yet to secure a top-10 in-state player, with safety Hylton Stubbs ranked 14th.