Malachi Toney injury ends Heisman Trophy chances, expected back for CFP
· Yahoo Sports
The Miami Hurricanes just lost one of its biggest playmakers for the rest of the regular season, and Malachi Toney‘s Heisman Trophy hopes have also taken a massive tumble.
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The ACC star has become one of the top wide receivers in college football throughout the 2026 season. However, a high ankle sprain will limit Toney’s availability for the remainder of the regular season as Miami chases a trip to the College Football Playoff.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel reports that the Hurricanes WR will have surgery on his ankle, which puts him on the sidelines for at least four weeks. Meanwhile, Miami is optimistic that he will return for the CFP in December.
This season, Toney’s been one of the best wideouts in America alongside Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. Now, the Heisman race has essentially shifted to two players.
MORE: Miami in surprising situation vs. Notre Dame after first CFP rankings
Miami optimistic about Toney comeback
Breaking: Malachi Toney has a high ankle sprain and will have surgery, which will allow him to return for the College Football Playoff, sources told @PeteThamel. The timeline for return from this injury is typcially at least four weeks. https://t.co/54LUMW9Szx
— ESPN (@espn) November 5, 2026
It’s obviously a massive disappointment for the star wideout to miss the stretch run before the playoff begins. He’s firmly etched himself into the Heisman chase with Smith and Darian Mensah. However, this injury likely removes Toney from consideration with several important games upcoming.
The top concern for the Hurricanes is Toney’s long-term health as the team prepares for another deep CFP run. Miami lost a narrow contest against Indiana during last season’s National Championship Game.
In 2026, Mensah and Co. have even greater aspirations considering Miami’s ranked No. 1 in the country and has one of the highest-powered offenses.
MORE: First College Football Playoff top 25 rankings of 2026 released
The 19-year-old receiver is ranked top three in college football in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. Toney’s presence will be severely missed in Week 10 as Miami plays Notre Dame in a battle of AP Top 25 ranked programs.
The Hurricanes and Fighting Irish are set to meet on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
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