Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney celebrates with quarterback Patrick Mahomes after a touchdown. Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes developing tight connection with another receiver

By Reese Nasser | Last updated 2/10/23

Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have an elite on-field connection. Per James Palmer of NFL Network, the Kansas City QB may be developing a similar connection with wideout Kadarius Toney, a midseason acquisition from the Giants.

In a conversation with a couple of #Chiefs coaches about the chemistry between Mahomes and Kelce, it was brought up ... unsolicited ... that Mahomes has started building that type of feel with Kadarius Toney. They said Toney's role/value to the offense has grown because of it https://t.co/o01T8cqFWZ
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) February 10, 2023

Palmer reported that the Chiefs' Super Bowl game plan is "expansive," with "a lot in there for Toney to do different things, specifically after the catch. They can use him in a variety of ways."

The Chiefs offense has relied heavily on the connection between Mahomes and Kelce, Kansas City's leading receiver with 110 catches for 1,338 yards.

Following the trade, Toney slowly found his footing with the Chiefs. In nine games, he had 14 receptions for 171 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 59 yards and a touchdown.

Heading into the postseason, it appeared that Toney was set to play an even larger part in the offense. But he suffered an ankle injury in the AFC Championship Game, sidelining him for rehab. He also had a hamstring issue.

On Thursday, for the first time since suffering the injuries, Toney was a full participant in practice. Per Kevin Patra of NFL Network, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said Toney was "spirited yesterday and running around like crazy."

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