The Washington Commanders have been making strides to revamp their team culture since last season, and their latest move underscores this effort. They announced the release of defensive end Shaka Toney on Monday.
The former Penn State defensive end’s journey with the Commanders took a turbulent turn last year when he faced an indefinite ban for violating the NFL’s gambling policy.
The former Commanders player received a suspension last April that extended through the 2023 season due to betting on games in 2022. Nevertheless, a league investigation revealed no indication of using insider information or compromising any games.
Although the league reinstated him along with four other players last week, Toney remained the only one still under contract with his team. Linebacker Rashod Berry, wide receiver Quintez Cephus, safety C.J. Moore, and defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor are all currently without contracts.
After being selected in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft by Washington, he had signed a four-year, $3.6 million deal as a rookie and was poised to enter the third year of his contract, per Yahoo Sports. Nevertheless, while the former Commanders owner, Dan Snyder could not continue his legacy in the face of controversy, a player could do so.
Toney’s departure now leaves the team with eight defensive ends on their roster. His release doesn’t come as a shock, especially with the Commanders’ recent additions to the defensive end room under new head coach Dan Quinn, regardless of his promising two seasons in Washington.
Shaka Toney stats with the Commanders
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Shaka Toney was selected by the Washington Commanders in the seventh round out of Penn State. His inaugural season in the league saw him contribute 1.5 sacks along with eight quarterback pressures in 10 games.
Nevertheless, his defensive role diminished in the following year, as he primarily saw action on special teams, resulting in just eight tackles.
Over the course of two seasons with the Commanders, spanning 26 games, the 26-year-old DE compiled a stat line of 16 tackles, three quarterback hits, and 1.5 sacks.
