The Washington Commanders Trade for Star Cornerback Marshon Lattimore

The New Orleans Saints fired head coach Dennis Allen yesterday, signaling their shift toward tanking for the season. In a notable move, they agreed to trade their top defensive player, cornerback Marshon Lattimore, to the Washington Commanders in exchange for 2025 third—and fourth-round draft picks. The Saints also included a 2025 sixth-round pick they had acquired in a previous trade over the summer.

Despite the trade, the Commanders still hold seven picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. Lattimore, who ranks third in the NFL in pass breakups (68) since 2017, brings valuable experience to Washington’s defense. Meanwhile, rookie Mike Sainristil has shown promise, with 41 total tackles (34 solo) and one interception through nine games this season.

Currently, Benjamin St-Juste serves as the Commanders’ top cornerback, with 42 tackles (34 solo) and one forced fumble this season. However, the team has struggled to solidify a true number-one cornerback, especially after their 2023 first-round pick, Emmanuel Forbes, who has played in only five games this season. With this trade, the Commanders aim to strengthen their secondary.

Lattimore has faced injuries, missing 19 games over the past two seasons and sitting out two games this season with a hamstring issue. He has 15 career interceptions over 97 games and remains under contract for the next two years. To make room for Lattimore, the Commanders released defensive end Efe Obada.

Fans can look forward to seeing these teams face off on December 15, when the New Orleans Saints host the Washington Commanders at the Caesars Superdome.