The New Orleans Saints are relying on plenty of young playmakers. One of them that they have high expectations for in 2025 is on the defensive side of the ball for Brandon Staley's secondary.
Alontae Taylor's new position and impact
Cornerback Alontae Taylor is taking his new position in stride. Taylor is playing in a new role for Brandon Staley. He's the "star" for New Orleans' scheme under Staley. It's an important piece to the unit.
The player who could benefit the most from the scheme change is Alontae Taylor, who will man the nickel back or “star” position. Derwin James and Jalen Ramsey made the Pro Bowl as the “star” during Staley’s stints with the Los Angeles Chargers and Rams, respectively.
-- Jeff Duncan
Kellen Moore is incredibly confident in Taylor. He sounded excited for the DB's future when discussing him after practice on Thursday afternoon.
"I love watching Alontae. He's everything you want. He's got juice everyday... I just feel like he's going to become a really prominent leader for our team."
-- Kellen Moore on Alontae Taylor
Defensive back standing out to coaches and media
Taylor is backing up this support with strong performances in practice as well. You won't see a ton of highlight reels from OTAs when it comes to the defense on social media, but there has been a ton of positive feedback from those in attendance.
#Saints CB Alontae Taylor was the standout of practice today. A couple of passes defensed, great communication with the defense, celebrated every move of his teammates, super vocal and brought a ton of energy. Defense owned the day today despite a few red zone touchdowns. -- Ross Jackson following practice on Thursday, June 5th
From this morning's Locked On #Saints: Alontae Taylor is looking great in the team's new defensive system and it's why he could end up as the most valuable defensive player in 2025. pic.twitter.com/5AST05aWSo
— Ross Jackson (@RossJacksonNOLA) June 6, 2025
If Taylor can be consistent this season and take another step forward in his development, the defense for the Saints will be notably deeper. Earlier in his process career, the found success in the slot. Inconsistent usage and movement around the unit last season by Dennis Allen puts Taylor in a tough spot plenty of times.
Expect him to bounce back in a major way in 2025. Don't be surprised if that lands Taylor a contract extension, either. He is playing for a new deal in New Orleans.
