After a stellar 14-win regular season and a commanding playoff run, the Seattle Seahawks appear to be in prime shape. Yet, even the best teams can elevate their game. With over $73 million in cap space available this offseason, the Seahawks are well-positioned to not only retain their key free agents but also bolster their roster with new talent.
Bradley Locker from Pro Football Focus has delved into the numbers and tape to identify a prime free agent target for Mike Macdonald's squad. His recommendation? New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor.
Why Alontae Taylor Fits the Seahawks
In 2025, Taylor posted a solid 67.7 PFF coverage grade with six pass breakups. While he's allowed a passer rating of at least 98.5 when targeted over the past three years, he shined in zone coverage with an 80.3 grade, ranking him 10th among qualified corners. This makes him an intriguing option to line up alongside Devon Witherspoon in Macdonald’s zone-heavy defense.
At 27, Taylor might just need a fresh start to unlock his full potential. Playing for a contender like Seattle could be the change he needs, especially under a coach like Macdonald, known for maximizing defensive talent.
With Devon Witherspoon set as a starting cornerback, the potential departure of free agents Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen could open the door for Taylor. The Seahawks have the financial flexibility to retain one or both, but given their performance, they might opt to explore other options.
Taylor's Impact and Potential
Last season, Taylor recorded 83 total tackles (59 solo), 11 passes defensed, seven tackles for loss, three QB hits, and two interceptions in 17 games (16 starts) for the Saints. His durability is notable, having played in all 17 games for three consecutive seasons.
The Seahawks' defense allowed the tenth-fewest passing yards per game (193.9), yet there's room for refinement. Taylor may not be a consistent game-changer, but his potential upside in Seattle’s system is significant. With a market value of $11 million annually, Taylor represents a savvy low-risk, high-reward acquisition for the Seahawks.