Elite 2026 wide receiver Malachi Toney commits to Miami: “I’m staying home, lets do it”
Although Miami’s attention may be focused on landing the top 2024 prospects in the nation, the Hurricanes have landed one of the top 2026 talents after Fort Lauderdale (FL) American Heritage High School wide receiver Malachi Toney announced his commitment to the program Tuesday evening.
Despite only playing one year of high school football, the 5-foot-10, 175-pounder holds over 30 offers from the likes of Ohio State, Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, and others but decided to stay close to home and play for the Hurricanes.
“I just wanted to stay home and it feels good to stay home and have the chance to make Miami great again,” Toney told CaneSport. “That’s really it and the connections I have with the coach (Donovan) Verner, KB (Kevin Beard), (David) Cooney, Joe (Brown) and the whole staff.”
On staff, Toney has built a strong connection with Hurricanes wide receivers coach Kevin Beard, who played a large role in his recruitment.
“He just tells me they’re going to turn things back around and be like the old Miami,” Toney said. “He said just give him a chance.”
After a handful of visits to Coral Gables, Toney, and his family developed a great relationship with the staff, which led to his eventual commitment to Miami.
“When I step foot on campus they just show me so much love,” Toney said. “I can’t even put it into words but it’s just major love when I come down there. They just welcome me and it feels like how it’s supposed to feel, which is home.”
During his freshman campaign, Toney hauled in 35 receptions for 621 yards and eight touchdowns. This season, Toney is looking to double those numbers, as he is set to lead a young but talented American Heritage squad.
“My goal this year is to lead the team and make it back to that state championship game but this time win it,” Toney said. “I just want to lead my team and do my part.”
Toney now joins IMG Academy defensive back Ksani Jiles as Miami’s second commit of the 2026 class.
“I’m staying home,” Toney added. “Let’s do it.”
CaneSport’s take
After a breakout freshman campaign, Toney became one of the top wideouts in the 2026 class, and Miami made the youngster a priority. Although the Sunshine State wide receiver is only entering his sophomore season and has some time to go until he can sign his national letter of intent, it’s great to see the Hurricanes locking down one of South Florida’s promising stars early in his recruiting process.
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