The New Orleans Saints are tapping into the diverse skill set of cornerback Alontae Taylor as he embarks on his fourth NFL season. With a fresh coaching lineup led by head coach Kellen Moore and defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, Taylor’s ability to adapt to multiple positions within the defense is poised to be a major asset. The new staff has quickly recognized the potential to utilize Taylor’s versatility in the evolving defensive schemes during offseason team activities (OTAs).

Coaching Staff Emphasizes Flexibility in Defensive Strategy

Moore and Staley, each marking their first year with the Saints, understand the value Taylor brings in shifting roles. Taylor’s experience as both an outside and slot cornerback over 47 games and 37 starts gives the coaching staff options to craft a dynamic defense. According to Moore, this flexibility allows the team to run matchup-based tactics, optimizing how they deploy Taylor depending on the opponent’s offensive formation.

He will definitely provide a lot of flexibility for us,

Moore said after the Saints wrapped up their fifth OTA practice.

Alontae is one of the primary guys about that – his ability to play the ‘Star’ position, which is really the nickel position as most people learn it, and the outside corner position. He’s going to be able to do both and that’s going to allow us to be able to play some matchup football when we need to play matchup football.

—Kellen Moore, Head Coach

Harnessing Taylor’s Defensive Skills Beyond Coverage

Beyond his role in coverage, Taylor’s competence against the run and effectiveness as a blitzer add another dimension to his value on defense. His ability to contribute beyond the typical corner duties has already been apparent to the staff during practices. As the Saints continue to develop their defensive identity, Taylor’s broad skill set will help them execute more aggressive and versatile game plans.

I think he does a really good job. He’s good against the run, he’s a really good blitzer – I think that has shown. He’s got a lot of tools.

—Kellen Moore, Head Coach

Implications for the Saints’ 2024 Defensive Outlook

With this strengthened coaching guidance, Taylor’s role is expected to grow, allowing the Saints to challenge opposing offenses in new ways. The combined ingenuity of Moore and Staley aims to maximize Taylor’s adaptability in coverage and pressure situations. This strategic focus on versatility could be key in improving the Saints’ defensive performance as the NFL season approaches.