Kadarius Toney shocked fans by making a big career change. The former first-round NFL pick said he is moving into music. He is now going by the name Yung Joka.
He released his first album WARRIOR4LYFE on Halloween. It has ten tracks. Fans can find it on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube. The timing makes people wonder about his NFL future.
Toney last played in the 2024 season with the Cleveland Browns. He is currently unsigned. His switch to music could mean he is leaving football behind.
Toney started his NFL career with a lot of promise. He was the 20th overall pick in 2021 for the New York Giants. He played college football at the Florida Gators.
In 2022, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs. He won back-to-back Super Bowls there. Even with the championships, his stats did not match expectations.
He recorded 420 receiving yards in New York. In Kansas City, he had 340 yards and three touchdowns. He struggled with consistency penalties and injuries. He was waived in 2024.
Now Toney is focused on music. His story shows how fast an NFL career can change. Fans are watching to see what comes next.
Why the Music Path Reflects More Than a Hobby
Kadarius Toney’s move to music shows more than just a new interest. It touches on athlete identity and the short span of sports careers.
As Yung Joka he released WARRIOR4LYFE. Fans reacted quickly. Comments like “Joka don’t miss” and “You really saving this messed-up industry right now” appeared online.
The NFL remains the premier stage for athletes. But the league is highly competitive and careers can be short. Many players explore other passions. Toney chose one that mixes his creative side with his public image.
This choice also affects his brand. He won two Super Bowl rings but never became a top receiver. Now his legacy moves into a new area.
A failed comeback or quiet exit from football would show how fragile sports careers can be. His social media announcement works as a clear statement. It signals a shift. He is ready to define success on his own terms.
Toney’s example shows how athletes today find identity beyond the game. Some go into business media or broadcasting. Toney chose music. It is a space where the beat drops even if the ball does not.
Whether this path leads to charts or a return to football is still unknown. For now, this moment marks a significant turning point in his life and career.
