The Washington Commanders made a notable acquisition at the NFL trade deadline, securing four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. In exchange, Washington sent third-, fourth-, and sixth-round picks in the 2025 draft to New Orleans, while receiving Lattimore and a fifth-round pick, pending his physical.
At age 28, Lattimore is set to make an immediate impact on Washington’s defense, enhancing their secondary with his elite coverage skills. This strategic move bolsters Washington’s playoff prospects as they sit at 7-2, with Lattimore expected to join Benjamin St-Juste and rookie Mike Sainristil in the cornerback rotation. The Commanders’ defense, featuring standout safeties Jeremy Chinn and Quan Martin, is positioned to benefit from his presence.
This trade aligns with a broader restructuring for the Saints, who recently dismissed head coach Dennis Allen following a seventh consecutive loss, lowering their season record to 2-7. Lattimore, who earned the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year title in 2017, has been slowed by hamstring injuries but remains formidable in coverage, having not allowed a touchdown since 2021 despite limited interceptions. His restructured contract made him a financially viable acquisition, with no guaranteed money remaining.
General Manager Adam Peters executed this trade efficiently, leveraging previously acquired draft assets to avoid sacrificing significant value. The Commanders’ additional third-round pick came from a deal with Philadelphia involving Jahan Dotson, while the sixth-round pick was obtained in the trade that brought John Ridgeway from Washington. This acquisition also offers flexibility with Emmanuel Forbes, a 2023 first-round pick who has struggled and was inactive for the recent Giants matchup.
To finalize Lattimore’s addition, Washington waived defensive end Efe Obada, balancing their roster as they strengthen their secondary for the postseason stretch.
