By Ross Jackson
Of all of the New Orleans Saints players, cornerback Alontae Taylor has been one of the most commonly mentioned that will benefit from new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme.
Staley’s defensive system includes an emphasis on the nickel or slot cornerback role that has refocused a bit of a spotlight on Taylor. The “Star” role is one that will hopefully continue to make a star of the talented defensive back who is expecting to make a big impact in 2025.
“I think my role is going to be pretty crucial,” Taylor said following an OTA practice last week. “I think I’m going to help the defense out in many ways. I kind of get the feeling that I had going back to my senior year at Tennessee when we had Coach Banks come in and Coach Martinez comes in with the freedom that I have to kind of move around and just kind of play my game and not feel like a robot out there. So, super excited about it.”
The Star role is one that benefited veteran corner Jalen Ramsey immensely in 2020 when he and Staley were together with the Los Angeles Rams. Eventually, former Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. would fit into it, too.
Generally speaking the role is that of a slot corner in nickel or dime sets that also takes snaps on the outside in base rep with just four defensive backs in the field.
From this perspective, Taylor has the requisite experience and skill set to thrive.
“I feel like me playing inside has helped me a lot as far as the knowledge of the game,” he said.
The role also asks for the designated corner to contribute in many ways. Often in coverage, of course, but also as an important piece in the rushing defense and occasionally as a pass rusher. In each, Taylor has charted success.
Bryce Young was sacked four times in his season opener against the Saints. Three of those sacks came from CB Alontae Taylor #1. We need to fix this… #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/xUvcaDIkpt
— Justin Dolloff (@JustinDolloff) September 11, 2024
Part of the comfort for any nickel corner or versatile defensive back comes from more than the individual performance, however. A secondary that can function seamlessly regardless of personnel or alignment will be a game-changer.
Right now, Taylor is liking the fit with him and his fellow cornerbacks.
“Having guys like Kool-Aid [McKinstry] and [Isaac Yiadom] come in and play on the outside of me,” Taylor said. “It feels good knowing they know what they’re supposed to do as well. So it kind of let me play with that freedom, right? And we can kind of communicate and things like that. Surrounded by some pretty good guys and guys that are going to allow me [to] play free.”
