Toney leaves Gators for NFL

GAINESVILLE — Florida defensive coordinator Patrick Toney will leave after one season for the Arizona Cardinals following a 2022 Gators’ debut when his defense struggled mightily.

Toney, whose departure was first reported by ESPN and confirmed by the Orlando Sentinel, followed head coach Billy Napier from Louisiana where he served in the same role for two seasons. The Gators will replace Toney with recently hired Alabama linebackers coach Austin Armstrong.

Florida tight ends coach William Peagler also is leaving the Gators after one season, a person with knowledge of the situation confirmed.

Toney will serve as a defensive assistant with the Cardinals. Arizona hired Jonathan Gannon from the Philadelphia Eagles to be head coach and Nick Rallis, the Eagles’ linebackers coach, to oversee the defense.

“PT has been a pivotal part of our success over the last five years,” Napier said in a statement. “He has set a great example and been a relentless worker and learner. He is a selfless teammate and one of the finest coaches and teachers we have been around.”

Nick Saban hired Armstrong on Feb. 13 after he served as the youngest defensive coordinator in FBS at Southern Miss.

Toney arrived in Gainesville with a seemingly bright future ahead.

Napier and Toney’s players praised his football IQ and ability to make in-game adjustments. Yet, the 32-year-old’s aptitude and potential did not translate into success.

The Gators allowed opponents to convert 49.71% on third down, ranking 129th nationally among 131 teams. Florida gave up more plays of 10 yards or longer than all but Arkansas among 14 SEC teams while also ranking 12th against the run, 11th against the pass and 10th in scoring defense. Florida recorded 23 sacks, tied for the fewest since 2017 s 4-win season.

Toney’s defense did produce 22 takeaways, tied with Tennessee and Mississippi State for the SEC lead