Seahawks Encouraged to Pursue Premier Free-Agent Cornerback
The Seattle Seahawks may need to revamp their secondary this offseason, particularly at cornerback.
With uncertainty surrounding the futures of Riq Woolen, Josh Jobe, and Coby Bryant, the position could look very different next year. That’s part of why Bleacher Report analyst Alex Ballentine believes Seattle should target New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor in free agency.
Ballentine noted that although the Seahawks have significant salary cap space, much of it may be allocated toward retaining key contributors from their Super Bowl run. Players such as Kenneth Walker III, Rashid Shaheed, and Boye Mafe are expected to draw strong interest on the open market.
Still, cornerback stands out as an area for potential improvement. Woolen may not have been an ideal fit in Mike Macdonald’s defensive system, and Taylor could provide a more seamless match. He allowed just 6.5 yards per target this season and offers greater versatility in coverage.
Why Taylor Could Be a Strong Fit
A second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Tennessee, Taylor has missed only four games in his career—all during his rookie campaign. His production has steadily improved over time.
In 2023, he recorded his first two career interceptions along with 75 tackles and a sack. In 2024, while he didn’t notch an interception, he posted four sacks and a career-high 89 tackles. This past season, Taylor added two interceptions, two sacks, and 83 tackles, continuing his consistent performance.
His ability to line up at multiple spots in the secondary would give Seattle added flexibility if he were to join the roster.
However, Taylor is expected to attract considerable interest in free agency. If the Seahawks truly want him, they may need to act quickly and make him a priority.
General manager John Schneider will first need to determine which members of the Super Bowl roster will return before deciding whether Taylor fits into the team’s long-term plans—and whether both sides see it as the right opportunity.
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