The Washington Commanders surprised many by acquiring Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints just before the NFL trade deadline. In exchange for Lattimore, Washington traded third-, fourth-, and sixth-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft to the Saints, receiving a fifth-round pick along with the talented cornerback. This acquisition adds a major asset to Washington’s secondary, pending a physical exam, and represents a significant investment in the team’s playoff hopes as they hold a strong 7-2 record.
Lattimore, 28, will be a key player for Washington’s defense, bolstering a promising secondary that includes fellow cornerbacks Benjamin St-Juste and rookie Mike Sainristil, as well as safeties Jeremy Chinn and Quan Martin. Known for his lockdown coverage, Lattimore hasn’t allowed a touchdown in coverage since 2021, a stat that makes him highly valuable despite limited interceptions. His experience and ability should help fortify the Commanders’ defense as they push for a deep playoff run in a season that has exceeded expectations.
The Saints, meanwhile, have faced upheaval, having recently fired head coach Dennis Allen following a string of seven consecutive losses that left them at a disappointing 2-7. Trading Lattimore, a former AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, marks a significant shift for New Orleans as they transition under new leadership. Lattimore’s recent hamstring issues and lingering trade rumors were likely factors in the decision, as the team seeks to rebuild and reallocate resources following a turbulent season.
For the Commanders’ front office, the trade represents a low-cost addition with a high upside. Washington’s general manager, Adam Peters, managed to acquire Lattimore without sacrificing essential assets. The draft picks used in the trade were either accumulated from previous trades, like the third-rounder from Philadelphia, or other transactions that had already provided returns for Washington. Lattimore’s restructured contract also made him a cap-friendly acquisition, with no guaranteed money, minimizing financial risk for Washington.
The addition of Lattimore also gives the Commanders flexibility in handling cornerback Emmanuel Forbes, a 2023 first-round pick who has struggled and was recently benched. Peters and head coach Dan Quinn now have more options in managing their secondary lineup, potentially shifting Forbes’ role to allow him time to develop. To make room for Lattimore on the roster, Washington released defensive end Efe Obada, indicating a clear focus on enhancing the secondary as they continue their successful season.
