Penn State football defensive end Shaka Toney has officially declared for the 2021 NFL Draft, according to an announcement on his Twitter page.

In a statement, Toney said playing college football at Penn State was “a dream come true.”

“I want to thank Coach Franklin, the Penn State staff, and coaches for all they’ve done for me by helping me grow as a player, a man, and a person,” Toney said. “To my teammates, what more can I say than I appreciate you. You all will be my brothers for life.”

Toney, a redshirt senior and captain for the 2020 season, posted 19.5 career sacks at Penn State, good for 10th all-time in program history. He appeared in 47 games with the Nittany Lions and posted 115 total tackles, 29.5 tackles for a loss, four forced fumbles, and four pass deflections.

Earlier this year, Toney accepted an invite to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, where he’ll hope to boost his draft stock. At this time, he’d likely hear his name called on Day 3 of the 2021 NFL Draft, if anything. Pro Football Network recently labeled Toney as a fifth-round selection.

Toney is the third Nittany Lion to declare for the draft so far this cycle. He joins tight end Pat Freiermuth and fellow defensive end Jayson Oweh in moving on to the NFL.

About the Author

Matt DiSanto

Matt proudly served as Onward State’s managing editor for two years until graduating from Penn State in May 2022. Now, he’s off in the real world doing real things. Send him an email (mattdisanto86@gmail.com) or follow him on Twitter (@mattdisanto_) to stay in touch.

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