Detailed Summary of "Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball - Kadarius Toney"
Podcast Information:
- Title: New Rory & MAL
- Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
- Description: New stories, new laughs, new random hot takes that no one asked for... New Rory & Mal
- Episode: Rory & Mal Don't Know Ball - Kadarius Toney
- Release Date: May 15, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of "New Rory & MAL," hosts Rory and Mal engage in a candid and in-depth conversation with Kadarius Toney, the 20th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Kadarius, a standout wide receiver from the University of Florida, shares his journey from high school in Alabama to the collegiate and professional levels of football. Additionally, he delves into his passion for music, providing listeners with a multifaceted view of his life both on and off the field.
Choosing the University of Florida
Kadarius opens the discussion by explaining his decision to attend the University of Florida instead of staying closer to home in Alabama. He emphasizes the impact of environment and how the vibe at Florida garnered his attention more than any other institution he considered.
Notable Quote:
"It was a vibe when I went to Florida that I didn't catch anywhere else that I visited..."
[01:56]
Focus and Environment
He highlights the importance of moving away from his hometown to maintain focus and avoid distractions. Being a local hero in Alabama would have made attending the University of Alabama challenging in terms of staying centered on his athletic and personal growth.
Notable Quote:
"I wanted to get away from home. Cause I feel like I'd be too accessible, I guess you could say."
[03:09]
Collegiate Career at the University of Florida
Kadarius discusses the cultural differences he encountered transitioning from Alabama to Florida. He appreciates the non-judgmental atmosphere in Florida, which allowed him to express himself freely without fear of criticism.
Notable Quote:
"You can just be yourself there and nobody really gonna judge you."
[04:05]
Upholding the Gator Legacy
He reflects on the responsibility of upholding the University of Florida's storied football legacy. Balancing personal ambition with the expectations tied to being a Gator was both motivating and challenging.
Notable Quote:
"I always keep myself self-motivated... I want to do this, I gotta have one."
[05:12]
Memorable Moments
Kadarius recalls his first home game experience as surreal and electrifying, marking a pivotal moment in his collegiate career that solidified his love for the game.
Notable Quote:
"It was probably a feeling I'll never forget... The band playing, the players..."
[05:43]
Transition to the NFL
Moving into his professional career, Kadarius shares his experiences with the New York Giants and later with the Kansas City Chiefs. He discusses the differences in team dynamics, coaching styles, and the heightened level of competition in the NFL.
Notable Quote:
"It was a lot. It really ain't gonna last a lot. It's a lot."
[05:36]
Draft Day Emotions
Kadarius vividly describes the emotions he felt upon hearing his name called during the NFL Draft, encapsulating the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Notable Quote:
"It feels so surreal... It's just like, it just felt that great."
[17:41]
Notable Achievements
He highlights his record-breaking performances, particularly mentioning a standout game against the Cowboys where he excelled and made significant plays that solidified his presence in the league.
Notable Quote:
"After a game like that, I just feel like I wanted to do it again."
[19:08]
Perspectives on the Transfer Portal and NIL
Kadarius offers a critical view of the current state of college sports, particularly focusing on the impact of the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements. He believes these factors have shifted athletes' motivations from passion for the game to financial gain, potentially weakening the competitive spirit.
Notable Quote:
"I feel like it's turning into like a money game now... I feel like it watered it down."
[08:24]
Critique of Shadrach Sanders
The conversation takes a turn as Kadarius critiques Shadrach Sanders, questioning his draft position and skill level based on his performance in big games. He contrasts Sanders with other quarterbacks who have proven themselves under pressure.
Notable Quote:
"I feel like he didn't win enough big games to say that he was..."
[09:53]
Encounter with Cam Newton
Kadarius recounts an interaction with Cam Newton, expressing his disappointment in how Sanders handled criticism from an accomplished quarterback like Newton, viewing it as a missed opportunity for growth and mutual respect.
Notable Quote:
"I feel like it was a little disrespectful... to show love."
[14:10]
Music Career and Artistic Pursuits
Beyond football, Kadarius passionately discusses his involvement in music. He clarifies misconceptions about retiring from the NFL to pursue music, emphasizing his desire to gain more exposure for his artistic endeavors while continuing his athletic career.
Notable Quote:
"I want more exposure for my music because I'm really better than a lot of the other people..."
[27:38]
Balancing Two Passions
He explains how he manages to juggle both careers, often recording music during his free time and keeping his artistic pursuits separate from his teammates and football life.
Notable Quote:
"I kind of keep that separate. I don't really intertwine the two."
[29:15]
Musical Influences and Comparisons
Kadarius shares his musical influences from different regions, noting the distinct sounds from Alabama, Florida, and New York. He also mentions artists he aspires to collaborate with, highlighting his respect for fellow musicians like Lil Durk.
Notable Quote:
"I started making music, people tell me I sound like Thug Gunner..."
[31:51]
Interactive Trivia Segment
In a light-hearted trivia segment, Rory and Mal challenge Kadarius with questions about music and football history. This segment showcases Kadarius's knowledge and leaves room for humorous interactions when answers don't quite match up.
Notable Exchange:
Kadarius: "It could be him personally, but Nah, personally though, probably just be an NFL MVP." [31:18]
Co-Host: "We're all wrong again." [40:59]
Reflections on Fame and Personal Growth
Kadarius reflects on the challenges of fame, including the pressures of public perception and maintaining personal integrity. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and avoiding the pitfalls of internet fame.
Notable Quote:
"I just try to get as far away from that as possible... I just try to be myself and be true to my people."
[32:34]
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Kadarius expressing gratitude for the opportunities he's received in both football and music. He reiterates his commitment to excelling in both fields while maintaining his authenticity and focus.
Notable Quote:
"I appreciate it. Put the chopper down, though. Leave the chopper at home."
[45:20]
This episode offers a comprehensive look into Kadarius Toney's life, exploring the intersections of sports, personal development, and artistic expression. Listeners gain insights into the decisions that shaped his career, his perspectives on evolving aspects of college and professional sports, and his dedication to music as a parallel passion.