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Arizona's Greg Toler has been a topic of discussion for most fans of teams that want a cheaper but productive option at cornerback. The St. Paul University alum is among the plethora of defensive back talent in the upcoming free agency period that a team like the Eagles may have interest in. Toler is coming off an up-and-down season that followed a nasty leg injury (torn ACL) that forced him to miss all of 2011.
Toler obviously has injury history, but has played very well when healthy. That is why ESPN NFC West writer, Mike Sando calls him a "must-keep" for the Cards. Pro Football Focus ranks Toler as the 10th best free agent cornerback this offseason, which is saying something, considering he only started two games this season.
Here is a look at Toler's career statistics:
As you can see, Toler was on the upswing heading into 2011, coming off a strong 2010, when he tore his ACL in his left leg. He has shown a knack for creating turnovers when given the opportunity to play (7 career turnovers: 5 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles). Also, when he gets the ball in his hands, he has shown he can take it to the house (two career interceptions for touchdowns).
While he had a tough time staying on the field while recovering from the ACL last season, he will be a full two-years removed from the injury when the 2013 season starts. He also has ties to Billy Davis, who was his defensive coordinator in 2009 and 2010 (when he started 13 games). Toler is a physical cornerback in the mold of Sheldon Brown but is a bit more athletic.
There are rumors that the Cardinals want to resign him (and really who can blame them, as he will be relatively cheap). CBS's Pete Prisco calls the former small school standout, an under-the-radar target, but that will not matter if he avoids the open market. Toler is the type of role player signing that may not elate all fans but those who have watched him play, will be excited about the addition.
Here is a look at one of the coolest plays you will ever see on defense by Toler: