The Washington Commanders are acquiring former Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints for three draft picks.
The 7-2 Washington Commanders are acquiring four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. The news comes just one day after New Orleans fired head coach Dennis Allen. The Commanders will be receiving Lattimore and a fifth-round pick in the deal in exchange for Washington’s third-round pick, its fourth-round pick and a sixth-round pick, according to sources that spoke to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Lattimore has played in seven of New Orleans’ nine games this season. He missed the embarrassing 23-22 loss to the Carolina Panthers this past Sunday due to a hamstring injury. He doesn’t have an interception in 2024, but he has managed to record 30 total tackles and two pass deflections.
Commanders Bring in Much-Needed Defensive Support
Though the passing yardage numbers have been solid for the Commanders, the actual pass defense has been subpar. The Commanders are tied with the Panthers and Tennessee Titans for the third-fewest interceptions forced with just three this season. They’re also 28th in opponent’s passer rating (103.9).
There’s no denying that this is a big gamble by Washington. They are parting with three premium draft picks for a player who hasn’t played a full season since 2021. But, if Lattimore can return to full health, then he can be an immediate difference-maker on a team that appears to have Super Bowl aspirations.
It’s a big if, but if Lattimore can be fully healthy even for just the playoffs, then this trade is a slam dunk. After all, it is very unlikely that Washington would’ve selected a four-time Pro Bowler with those draft picks. As long as he doesn’t opt out at the end of the season, Lattimore is under contract for two more years.
The Saints are Going Full Tank Mode
Just one day after firing their head coach, the Saints elected to part with one of their best, young defensive players. Getting back three picks, including a third-rounder, for a guy who has already missed two games this season is some excellent work by Saints general manager Mickey Loomis.
New Orleans is waving the white flag on 2024. They’re tied with the New York Giants and the Panthers for the worst record in the NFC and haven’t won a game since September 15th. Their season officially died with their loss to the Panthers, so the Saints are trading away assets for premium draft capital.
Don’t expect New Orleans to be done making moves. Defensive end Chase Young could be a good pickup for a playoff team that needs an extra pass rusher. Offensive lineman Connor McGovern could also be a viable trade candidate with nine years of NFL experience. The Saints need to acquire as much draft capital as possible if they want to get out of quarterback hell. They’ve been stuck in it since Drew Brees retired in 2021.
Main Photo Courtesy of Stephen Lew – Imagn Images
