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Miami Freshman Malachi Toney Caps Record Season as NIL Value Soars After CFP Final

Negotiations over a major NIL deal underscore Miami's plan to build 2026 around the 18-year-old star.

Overview

  • In Miami's 27-21 loss to Indiana, Toney posted 10 receptions for 122 yards and a touchdown, closing his freshman year with 109 catches for 1,211 yards and 10 scores and setting Miami single-season and ACC freshman reception records.
  • CBS Sports reports negotiations are underway for a significant NIL package expected to place him among the highest-paid college wide receivers in 2026, adding to deals such as Leaf Trading Cards and Hellstar.
  • Miami has prioritized retaining Toney as the program shapes its 2026 roster during a brief post-championship transfer window, and his mother signaled he is staying by posting, “Don’t get it twisted were home.”
  • Toney reclassified to start college at 17, and reports differ on his first NFL draft eligibility, with outlets split between after the 2028 season or in the 2029 draft.
  • The South Florida standout known as “Baby Jesus” parlayed his American Heritage legend—including a title-winning stint at quarterback—into becoming Carson Beck’s top target throughout Miami’s playoff run.