Marshon Lattimore, four-time Pro Bowl cornerback, is now taking his talents to the Washington Commanders, leaving the New Orleans Saints after a notable stint. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Lattimore, who is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, was traded along with the Saints’ fifth-round pick. In return, the Saints receive Washington's third and fourth-round, and also a sixth-round pick previously acquired by Washington through the trade involving John Ridgeway as WGNO detailed.
The Commanders, with this strategic move, are looking to reinforce their pass defense, which ranks 21st in yards per pass attempt. Lattimore's record of 405 tackles, 15 interceptions, and 88 pass breakups throughout his career speaks to his ability to elevate a team's secondary. Despite his current injury, Washington appears poised to bolster its defensive line-up as they navigate the ongoing season, according to ESPN.
The Commanders' own announcement highlights Lattimore’s impressive eight-year career and emphasizes his contributions to the Saints' defensive successes in recent seasons. Lattimore has been durable, appearing in 97 games, and his impact has been reflected in his consistently strong performances, including his top-notch rookie season where he earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Cap space considerations are always a part of the trade equation, and the Commanders are threading the needle, with the second-most cap space projected for 2025. Lattimore, who restructured his contract with the Saints last December for "maximum flexibility," according to ESPN, will bring an $18 million cap hit in 2025, and $18.5 million in 2026, with no guaranteed money hanging over the deal. Meanwhile, Sainristil can return to slot corner duties, which lean into his natural position and strengths.
While Lattimore's tenure with the Saints was not without its complications, including a "personal situation," as he termed it, with former coach Dennis Allen, the cornerback always maintained his commitment to the team. The Saints' decision to part ways with Allen and Lattimore in short succession indicates a period of transition for the New Orleans franchise, aiming to recalibrate after a string of losses. Washington now hopes that Lattimore's inclusion will mark the beginning of a resurgence, fixing a key gap that has been apparent in their defense, as mentioned by ESPN.
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