"He'll also know that the defense needs the proper investments to turn things around. With only six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft as things stand, attacking free agency is almost guaranteed. The Commanders could have over $100 million in available salary-cap space next spring if the necessary sacrifices are made. And Peters' first port of call should be adding a prolific edge rusher or cornerback into the mix."
"[Alontae] Taylor gets the edge as the top corner based on teams consulted for this exercise. He has good size (6 feet, 199 pounds) with the flexibility to play inside and out. The Saints and Taylor once discussed an extension, but a deal never happened, which made him a trade candidate at last week's deadline. The Bears and Colts showed interest. As a reference point, the top 2025 free agent corners earned about $18 million per year on new deals."
"Taylor is an outstanding, ascending player. It's been a challenging campaign for the Saints overall, but he's one of the very few to have emerged with credit consistently. He's sound in coverage, holds his own against the run, and is a ferocious asset on blitz packages - something that came to the fore during his exceptional display against the Carolina Panthers in Week 10."
A significant offseason rebuild is required, with emphasis on youth and defensive reinforcements. The Commanders have limited 2026 draft capital and will likely pursue free agency aggressively, potentially creating over $100 million in salary-cap space through sacrifices. Priority targets include a prolific edge rusher or cornerback to bolster pass rush and coverage after recent struggles and injuries. Alontae Taylor is projected as the top cornerback entering 2026 free agency, with an estimated market value near $18 million per year. Taylor combines size, run support, coverage skills, and blitz effectiveness, including a standout Week 10 performance.
Read at Riggo's Rag
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