The Washington Commanders surrendered a third-round pick for Marshon Lattimore at the trade deadline, but the team could release him after one disappointing season. A former lockdown cornerback, Lattimore battled injuries from 2022 to 2024. That didn’t stop an up-and-coming Commanders team from investing in the defensive back as they pursued their unlikely title run. Unfortunately, the veteran only played in two regular season games and three playoff games but never looked like his old self even when on the field.
Basically, Marshon Lattimore did not play up to expectations in 2024, and NFL Network’s Matt Okada believes the Commanders could release him before the start of the season. While nobody wants to give up on such a big investment after one season, the sunk cost fallacy seems to be the only reason to bring him back in 2025.
“Washington traded for him at the 2024 deadline, sending a package of picks but only getting two regular-season games and three playoff contests out of him. And notably, he was awful in the postseason…With a release, his entire $18 million cap hit would become savings in 2025.”
Report: Washington Commanders Could Release Marshon Lattimore Months After Trade
$18 million is a large cap hit for any non-quarterback, but it’s especially worrisome for a player with an extensive injury who played poorly when on the field. The only thing that could save Lattimore from a release is Washington’s current salary cap situation. As of this posting, the team has a staggering $82.2 million in cap space, the third-most in the league. The Commanders can’t spend all that even if they tried, so perhaps they’ll give Lattimore another opportunity to keep his job. However, nobody should be surprised if the team parts ways with the veteran.
Despite his underwhelming tenure in Washington, Marshon Lattimore should earn another job if the Commanders release him. While he won’t come close to earning $18 million a year, the following three teams could bring him in on a one-year, prove-it contract.
Possible Fits
New Orleans Saints
Why not? Marshon Lattimore came into the league with the New Orleans Saints, and it could be time for a reunion. New Orleans is drowning in salary cap debt and will likely lose impending free agent Paulson Adebo to a higher bidder. While second-round pick Kool-Aid McKinstry had a promising rookie season, this team needs another cornerback to slow down opposing offenses. Even with a new coaching staff, the Saints should know how to get the most out of Lattimore, and who doesn’t want to see him face off against Mike Evans twice a year?
Buffalo Bills
Despite having a subpar defense, the Buffalo Bills narrowly missed a trip to the Super Bowl. Last year, the unit ranked 20th in EPA/dropback allowed, which isn’t good enough for legitimate contenders. Josh Allen is arguably the NFL’s best quarterback, but he can’t do it all on his own. Unfortunately, the team lacks the money to go after big-name free agents, so they might as well buy low on Marshon Lattimore if the Commanders release him.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers fixed their offense last, so now it’s time to turn their focus to the defensive side of the ball. Jaycee Horn finally stayed healthy and played like a Pro Bowler, but the release of Dane Jackson could open the doors for Marshon Lattimore. While nobody should expect lockdown play, he should be a considerable upgrade, especially if the team loses Mike Jackson to a higher bidder. Ideally, Lattimore and Jackson will both sign in Carolina and give the team three reliable starters when everyone is healthy.
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