A.J. Brown left perplexed by Marshon Lattimore's antics during heated rivalry

There was no love lost between Washington Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore and Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown this season. And in all honesty, that's understating things slightly.

Lattimore didn't get much playing time following his deadline trade from the New Orleans Saints. A hamstring injury lingered throughout the campaign and into the postseason. He was never able to shake it off and couldn't meet the heights expected despite some exceptional flashes.

All eyes were on his duels with Brown, one of the league's most imposing wideouts who's tormented the Commanders in recent seasons. Lattimore is a fiery character who doesn't back down an inch. This represented a powder keg waiting to go off at any moment. That proved to be the case.

It was physical, often involving extracurricular activities after the whistle. Lattimore had some decent moments, but Brown dominated the matchup. With the Commanders keeping faith with the four-time Pro Bowler, they'll be hoping this changes after an offseason to get fully healthy and immerse himself in Washington's defensive system.

A.J. Brown reveals secrets behind Commanders CB Marshon Lattimore's approach

Brown lifted the lid on his new rivalry with Lattimore during an appearance on the Kicking it with Dee podcast. The wide receiver revealed secrets behind the defensive back's approach, taking on the challenge of bullying the bully and coping with the potentially offputting mind games during their two collisions this season.

I would say this past season, it was Marshon [Lattimore]. He's a really good player, but I don't know. His persona kind of comes off like 'I'm finna bully you', and that's how it comes off. He's a good player, but I bully the bully. I'm not going for none of that out here. And those were the type of conversations, like 'Bro, why you are acting like this, what's up with you?' He's talking, he's doing weird stuff after the play, trying to shove you off the play. He's trying to get in your head.A.J. Brown

This shouldn't be a great surprise. It's the way Lattimore has always been. He's a big talker who wants to compete against the best. And he'll do anything in his power to gain the upper hand.

The approach isn't for everyone, but it's been highly successful throughout his career. The Commanders had something similar when Josh Norman was around. Unfortunately for Washington, Brown wasn't going for it.

He's a different breed of wide receiver. Brown is imposing and boasts a similar mindset to Lattimore. And if anyone lost their cool in critical moments, it was the Ohio State product.

It's clear that Brown felt some type of way about taking on Lattimore. He's built a reputation for bringing out the worst in people — just ask Mike Evans. Sometimes it works in his favor. Other times, it's the motivation his opponents need to thrive.

Lattimore walks a thin tightrope at all times. The Commanders made an aggressive move to secure his services because they believed he could be an asset. That didn't happen right away consistently enough, but it would be surprising if he wasn't able to bounce back.

And when the time comes to lock horns with Brown again, Lattimore must keep calm in the pressure cooker.