Shaka Toney Bio
Shaka Felton Toney is an American professional football defensive end currently playing for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League. Born on January 7, 1998, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Toney played college football at Penn State University and was selected by the Washington Football Team in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft. His career has seen notable achievements, including being named first-team All-Big Ten in 2020 and second-team All-Big Ten in 2019. Toney’s journey has included challenges, including a suspension for betting on NFL games, but he continues to pursue his career in professional football.
Early Life and Background
Shaka Toney was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he attended Imhotep Institute Charter High School. During his senior year, he earned recognition as the Pennsylvania Football News Class AAA Defensive Player of the Year, recording an impressive 97 tackles and 21 sacks. This early success laid the foundation for his future in football, showcasing his talent and commitment to the sport.
Path to American Football
Following high school, Toney continued his football career at Penn State University, where he redshirted his true freshman season. As a redshirt freshman, he made a significant impact, recording 20 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks, earning a spot on the Big Ten Network’s All-Freshman team. His performance improved over the years, culminating in a second-team All-Big Ten selection in 2019, where he recorded 41 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks.
Shaka Toney Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
Toney was selected by the Washington Commanders in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft, being the 246th overall pick. He signed a four-year rookie contract on May 13, 2021, and made his mark in the league by recording his first career sack during a game against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 12 of the 2021 season. However, his career faced a setback when he was suspended indefinitely by the NFL for betting on games during the 2022 season. Following his reinstatement in April 2024, he was released by the Commanders shortly thereafter.
Breakthrough (2024-2025)
After his release from the Washington Commanders, Toney signed with the Dallas Cowboys on August 1, 2024. Unfortunately, he was waived with an injury designation just two weeks later. In a new chapter of his career, Toney signed with the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League on June 3, 2025, marking his return to professional football and a chance to showcase his skills on a new platform.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Shaka Toney has achieved several milestones, including being named first-team All-Big Ten in 2020 and second-team All-Big Ten in 2019. His journey has been marked by both success and challenges, including his suspension, but he remains a dedicated athlete committed to his craft.
Shaka Toney Award Nominations
Shaka Toney has received recognition for his performance on the field, including nominations for All-Big Ten honors during his college career, showcasing his talent and potential as a professional athlete.
Shaka Toney Awards Won
Toney’s accolades include being named first-team All-Big Ten in 2020 and second-team All-Big Ten in 2019, reflecting his outstanding performance during his college football career.
Shaka Toney Family
Information regarding Shaka Toney’s family background is limited and not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Shaka Toney’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed. His focus remains on his professional football career and upcoming opportunities.
