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Florida WR Kadarius Toney opts out of bowl game to focus on NFL Draft

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 12/28/20

Florida Gators star wide receiver Kadarius Toney joined teammate Trevon Grimes by announcing on Monday that he won't play in Wednesday's Cotton Bowl Classic against the Oklahoma Sooners and is instead choosing to focus on entering the 2021 NFL Draft:

Much Appreciated GatorNation! Foreva In My heart pic.twitter.com/1Sv3cXS8tn
— Joka ® (@0fficialC2N) December 28, 2020

Toney exits the Gators leading the team with 70 receptions and 984 receiving yards. His 10 receiving touchdowns are the most tallied by any Florida wide receiver this season. Per Blake Alderman of 247Sports, Toney was named to the All-America second team, among the several honors he received ahead of Wednesday's bowl game.

Like Grimes, Toney started in each contest this season.

ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Toney as the No. 8 prospect at the position back on Dec. 17. Last week, Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports listed Toney as a first-round selection.

Meanwhile, Charlie Campbell of Walter Football sees Toney as a second or third round selection.

"Toney's big-time ability and playmaking speed have been put on display in 2020 as he has been a dangerous receiver, potent runner, and punt returner," Campbell wrote on Dec. 5. "In the NFL, he could be a dynamic weapon who plays outside receiver, slot receiver, and some running back."

Toney also contributed 161 rushing yards and a score on the ground for Florida this season.

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