The San Francisco 49ers are in the midst of a significant defensive overhaul, particularly in their secondary, following a season that saw them surrender the fourth-most points per game. Despite allowing the fourth-fewest passing yards, the team's cornerback depth has been challenged with notable departures. Key players like Charvarius Ward and Isaac Yiadom have moved on, leading the 49ers to sign Tre Brown, Tre Tomlinson, and Siran Neal, alongside their draft pick Upton Stout.

This influx of new talent raises questions about the unit's cohesion and ability to perform against top passing offenses. As the team looks ahead, the 2026 draft might see them targeting an elite cornerback to secure their pass defense for the future. A decision that could reshape their defensive strategy entirely.

The New Orleans Saints are set to begin their organized team activities (OTAs) on Tuesday, where several key position battles will take center stage, notably in the cornerback position. With the trade of All-Pro Marshon Lattimore, the Saints are left with a relatively inexperienced group. Kool-Aid McKinstry, who saw action during his rookie year, struggled with in-game experience, while Alontae Taylor had ups and downs after a successful stint in the slot. The team's efforts to address this gap included targeting Charvarius Ward, but they ultimately settled for Isaac Yiadom, signing him to a three-year, $9 million deal. Furthermore, the Saints used a fifth-round pick acquired in the Lattimore trade to select Quincy Riley out of Louisville, aiming to strengthen their defensive backfield.

New Orleans Saints are poised for an exciting defensive transformation with rookie cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry expected to step into a notable role. Alontae Taylor's return to the slot alongside Isaac Yiadom will bolster the secondary, but with the departure of several veterans, the need for fresh talent is palpable.

Will Johnson, touted by Bleacher Report as a prime candidate for an immediate impact, is recovering from injuries that muddled his college career. A healthy Johnson could quickly become the top cornerback on the roster, filling a critical gap in the Saints' defense. As the roster stands, the pressure is on him to prove he can excel at the professional level right from the start.

The New Orleans Saints have signed cornerback Isaac Yiadom to a three-year, $9 million contract aimed at reinforcing their secondary. Yiadom's return is notable after a productive season in 2023, where he tallied 37 tackles, an interception, and 14 passes defended. The Saints' strategic contract structure includes a low cap hit for the current year, allowing them to maneuver financially while securing depth at cornerback.

For the 2025 season, Yiadom's cap hit will be just under $2 million. The contract is backloaded, featuring a salary increase in 2026 and 2027, but with minimal guarantees beyond the first year. This flexibility provides the Saints with options as they continue to build their roster.

The New Orleans Saints continue to reshape their roster amidst a competitive free agency landscape. With notable departures including cornerback Paulson Adebo to the New York Giants and wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling to the Seattle Seahawks, they are also welcoming key additions like two-time Super Bowl champion Justin Reid. The Saints have made several moves, including trading for defensive tackle Davon Godchaux from the New England Patriots and securing cornerback Isaac Yiadom, enhancing their defense.

Despite these changes, the Saints have missed out on some high-profile players such as cornerback Charvarius Ward and wide receiver Cooper Kupp. As they look ahead, they are evaluating 25 potential free agent signings to address key positional needs. Notable mentions include Pro Bowlers Amari Cooper and Stefon Diggs, as well as impressive defensive talents like Rasul Douglas and J.K. Dobbins, who could significantly impact their roster going into the upcoming season.