What's Happening?
The New Orleans Saints are evaluating potential candidates for their defensive backfield in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With the departure of Alontae Taylor, a versatile member of their secondary, the Saints are looking to fill the gap with a player
who can offer similar flexibility. Chris Johnson, a cornerback from San Diego State, has emerged as a strong contender. Johnson, who stands at 6 feet and weighs 193 pounds, has demonstrated impressive athleticism with a 40-yard dash time of 4.4 seconds and a vertical jump of 38 inches. His college career highlights include 67 tackles in 2024 and a standout 2025 season with 4 interceptions, 9 passes broken up, and 3 tackles for loss. Johnson's ability to play both outside and in the slot, along with his agility and anticipation, make him a valuable prospect. Although he did not play in a Power-5 conference, his performance has positioned him as a potential surprise first-round pick.
Why It's Important?
The Saints' interest in Chris Johnson underscores the team's strategic focus on strengthening their secondary, a critical component of their defense. With the NFL increasingly favoring passing offenses, having a versatile and agile cornerback is essential. Johnson's ability to adapt to different defensive schemes and his proven track record in college make him a promising candidate to fill the void left by Taylor. For the Saints, securing a player like Johnson could enhance their defensive capabilities, potentially improving their standings in the league. This decision could also influence other teams' draft strategies, particularly those looking to bolster their defensive backfields.
What's Next?
As the draft approaches, the Saints will continue to assess their options, possibly considering other positions with their first-round pick. If they choose to address another need initially, Johnson could be a viable option for a Day 2 selection. The team's decision will likely depend on their evaluation of Johnson's fit within their defensive scheme and his potential to contribute immediately. Other teams may also express interest in Johnson, which could affect his draft position. The outcome of these evaluations will be crucial in determining the Saints' defensive strategy for the upcoming season.
