San Diego State CB Chris Johnson Draws Saints' Interest

Versatile cornerback could be a Day 2 target for New Orleans to replace departed starter Alontae Taylor.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:55am

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San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson is generating interest from the New Orleans Saints ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Saints, who ranked 4th against the pass last season, have a need at cornerback after the departure of Alontae Taylor in free agency. Johnson, the 2025 Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, has the coverage skills and versatility to potentially contribute right away if drafted by New Orleans on Day 2.

Why it matters

The Saints' secondary was a strength in 2025, but they lost a key piece in Taylor. Adding a talented, versatile cornerback like Johnson could help them maintain their defensive success and keep pace in a competitive NFC South division.

The details

Johnson had a breakout 2025 season at San Diego State, recording 4 interceptions, 9 pass breakups, and 3 tackles for loss. He tied for the NCAA lead with 2 interception return touchdowns and led the Mountain West with 146 return yards. His combination of coverage ability, agility, and run support makes him an attractive option for the Saints, who could target him with one of their Day 2 picks.

  • Johnson saw limited action as a freshman in 2022 before becoming a vital part of the Aztecs' defense in 2023.
  • In 2024, Johnson recorded 67 tackles, second-most on the team.
  • Johnson capped off his collegiate career with his best season in 2025, earning Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year honors.

The players

Chris Johnson

A cornerback from San Diego State University who is generating interest from the New Orleans Saints ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Alontae Taylor

A former cornerback for the New Orleans Saints who departed the team as a free agent this offseason, creating a need in the Saints' secondary.

Brandon Staley

The defensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints, who helped the team rank 4th against opposing passing attacks in 2025.

Mansoor Delane

A cornerback from LSU who could be a potential first-round target for the Saints with the 8th overall pick.

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What they’re saying

“If Johnson had played in a Power-5 conference, he might be viewed as a potential top-15 pick. As it is, he could be a surprise first round selection and is certainly among a handful of corners that should come off the board before the end of the second day.”

— Bob Rose, Author

What’s next

The Saints will evaluate Johnson and other cornerback prospects closely leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, as they look to find a replacement for the departed Alontae Taylor and maintain the strength of their secondary.

The takeaway

Chris Johnson's impressive 2025 season at San Diego State has put him on the radar of the New Orleans Saints, who could target the versatile cornerback on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft to help fill a need in their defensive backfield.