The New Orleans Saints have a looming decision on the future of Alontae Taylor. Since being drafted in 2022, Taylor has been a staple of the defense. However, now he is an unrestricted free agent and may test the market. Although the Saints want to bring him back, Tom Pelissero at NFL.com thinks he may garnish a hefty price tag, which they might not match.
“He’s one of three players with 10+ passes defensed in each of the last four seasons -- along with Woolen and 2024 Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II -- with 52 total during that span (fourth-most in the NFL),” Pelissero wrote. “He has the versatility to play outside or in the slot. Now, Taylor’s payday is coming, and it could top $17 million a year.”
If Pelissero is correct that Taylor’s contract could reach $17 million per year, the Saints shouldn't match that. For reference, that contract would make Taylor the 20th highest-paid cornerback. It may not sound like much, but the highest paid slot cornerback comes in at $13.3 million. The Saints usage of Taylor makes it hard to justify that move.
If Alontae Taylor walks, the Saints have lots of production to replace
Taylor’s a versatile player who impacts both pass and run downs. He tallied 83 tackles, 11 pass deflections, seven tackles for loss, two interceptions, and two sacks in 2025. It’s nearly impossible for a possession to pass where he isn’t involved in a play. This productivity is a key reason why Taylor’s price tag is so high. Whoever gets him will gain an energetic defender who doesn’t take plays off.
It's not just the stats you have to replace in Taylor's absence. Pelissero mentioned Taylor's ability to play on the boundary or in the slot. There's some in house options to replace him in the slot, but Taylor leaving will force two players to step into new or bigger roles on the defense.
Overall, the Saints have a tough decision this offseason around unrestricted free agent Alontae Taylor. He’s an impactful player, so teams are going to be interested in his services. More interest tends to equal higher prices. It'll be hard replacing Taylor, but the Saints should pass if the price skies up to around $17 million.