Alontae Taylor is about to hit the open market, and he’s not expected to stay there long.
The Saints cornerback is entering free agency after putting together what many consider the best season of his young career in 2025. With his blend of experience, versatility, and playmaking potential, Taylor is projected to draw serious attention - especially from teams like the Rams, who have a clear need in the secondary.
According to projections, Taylor could command a deal in the range of three years and $33.5 million. That’s roughly $11 million per year - not quite the top-tier money we see for elite shutdown corners, but certainly within the upper tier for slot defenders. And given the current market, that’s a significant payday for a player who’s still just 27 and has logged nearly 3,750 defensive snaps across his first four seasons.
Taylor’s 2025 campaign saw him on the field for 96% of New Orleans’ defensive snaps - the highest usage of his career. He’s proven he can handle volume and responsibility, lining up both outside and in the slot. That kind of versatility is gold in today’s pass-happy NFL, where defensive backs are constantly tested in space, across formations, and against a variety of receiver types.
But Taylor’s game isn’t without its red flags.
While he flashed as a rookie - allowing just a 48.5% completion rate and surrendering zero touchdowns in coverage - his numbers have trended in the wrong direction since. In 2025, opposing quarterbacks completed 68.1% of passes thrown his way, a career low in terms of coverage efficiency. Over the past two seasons, he’s been tagged for 13 touchdowns, compared to just four over his first two years in the league.
What’s behind the slide? Some of it comes down to his aggressive style.
Taylor isn’t afraid to gamble in coverage, and when those risks don’t pay off, the results can be costly. He’s the kind of corner who’ll jump a route for a pick - and sometimes leave his safety hanging out to dry.
Still, there’s a lot to like. He’s a solid tackler, has forced three fumbles, and picked off four passes during his NFL tenure.
He’s also stayed healthy, avoiding any major injuries since entering the league. And in a league where availability is often as valuable as ability, that matters.
So what’s next?
The Rams are a logical fit. They need help in the secondary, and Taylor brings both starting experience and scheme flexibility.
But they’re not alone in the mix. The Dolphins and Titans are reportedly also in the conversation, and there’s always the chance the Saints try to keep him in-house.
Bottom line: Taylor isn’t a perfect player, but he’s a proven starter with upside - and in a thin cornerback market, that’s going to drive interest. Whether he ends up in Los Angeles or elsewhere, expect him to land a deal that reflects both his potential and the premium placed on versatile defensive backs in today’s NFL.