Bryce Fitzgerald and Malachi Toney Named Midseason Freshmen All-Americans

Miami Defensive back Bryce Fitzgerald is in the top 10 nationally in interceptions and wide receiver Malachi Toney has been a breakout star since the 27-24 season-opening win over Notre Dame. Fitzergald and Toney were named to the "On3 2025 Midseason True Freshman All-American Team" on Monday.

Fitzgerald has five tackles and is tied for seventh nationally with three interceptions, despite not starting a game and playing limited snaps in 2025. The biggest play by Fitzgerald was a 43-yard interception return that immediately preceded a touchdown reception by Toney versus Florida State.

The three interceptions by Fitzgerald in 2025 are the most by any true freshman nationally. Per Pro Football Focus via On3, Fitzgerald has allowed only 31 receiving yards in pass coverage in 2025. Fitzgerald is a key part of the Miami rotation in a rebuilt secondary.

Toney is first nationally among freshmen with 29 receptions, third with 375 receiving yards and tied for second with two touchdown catches. Toney leads Miami in receptions and receiving yards and is second to C.J. Daniel in TD catches.

Per On3, Toney leads all true freshmen WRs with 211 yards after the catch. Toney is on pace to shatter the Miami freshmen receiving records set by Ahmmon Richards with 49 receptions and 934 yards while adding three touchdowns in 2016.

Fitzgerald and Toney are the latest Miami freshmen to star under Mario Cristobal. Defensive lineman Rueben Bain, right tackle Francis Mauigoa and punter Dylan Joyce were all named freshmen All-Americans in 2023 and cornerback O.J. Frederique was a 2024 true freshman All-American.

Players thriving as freshmen under Cristobal show recruits they will have the opportunity to compete for playing time immediately. Fitzgerald has become a key player and Toney a star for Miami as true freshmen. Expect true freshmen to continue making an impact for Miami under Cristobal.