Alontae Taylor is about to become one of the hottest names on the NFL free agent market - and for good reason.
The former Tennessee Volunteer has steadily carved out a reputation as one of the more reliable cornerbacks in the league, and after a breakout 2025 campaign with the New Orleans Saints, he’s positioned himself for a big payday and an even bigger role wherever he lands next.
According to recent projections, the Los Angeles Rams could be the frontrunner to land Taylor. It’s a fit that makes a lot of sense.
The Rams are in clear need of help in the secondary, and Taylor brings both production and upside. He’s coming off his best season as a pro, and at just 27 years old, he’s entering his prime.
In 2025, Taylor started all 17 games for the Saints and put together a rock-solid stat line: 83 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions. He also earned a respectable 63.8 grade from Pro Football Focus, underscoring his consistency in coverage and willingness to get physical in run support. He’s not just a cover guy - he’s a complete corner.
If Taylor does end up in L.A., there’s an added layer of familiarity that could make the transition even smoother. The Rams already have two of his former Tennessee teammates: edge rusher Byron Young and safety Jaylen McCollough.
All three were part of Josh Heupel’s first defensive unit at Tennessee back in 2021. Reuniting with familiar faces in a system that could maximize his skill set?
That’s the kind of scenario that front offices - and players - dream about.
Of course, the Rams won’t be the only team in the mix. CBS also mentioned the possibility of Taylor returning to New Orleans, along with interest from the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans. Each team brings a different appeal: continuity with the Saints, scheme fit and playoff aspirations with the Dolphins, and a potential homecoming narrative with the Titans.
Taylor’s NFL journey began in 2022 when he was selected 49th overall by the Saints in the second round of the draft. He’d earned that spot with a strong college career that spanned four seasons in Knoxville. From 2018 to 2021, he racked up 162 tackles, four interceptions, a pick-six, and a fumble recovery for a touchdown - showing flashes of the playmaker he’s become at the pro level.
Now, heading into his fifth NFL season, Taylor is more than just a promising young corner. He’s a proven commodity with room to grow - and teams in need of secondary help are taking notice. Wherever he signs, expect him to step in as an immediate difference-maker.