Chiefs, Ravens Labeled as Potential Suitors for $97 Million Cornerback

   

Chiefs, Marshon Lattimore, New Orleans Saints

There’s a chance Marshon Lattimore won’t be playing for the New Orleans Saints soon. If that happens, the Kansas City Chiefs or Baltimore Ravens could swoop in to acquire the cornerback.

As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Saints face pivotal decisions regarding their roster, particularly concerning Lattimore. After enduring a disheartening six-game losing streak, the team is contemplating a shift from being buyers to sellers. Reports indicate that other teams are showing interest in Lattimore, especially if the Saints falter against the Carolina Panthers.

Chiefs, Marshon Lattimore, New Orleans Saints
Dec 19, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA;New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) celebrates as he recovers the fumble against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Lattimore, a four-time Pro Bowler, is having an impressive season, which has bolstered his trade value significantly. While trading him could yield valuable draft capital—potentially a second-round pick—such a move would also incur approximately $13 million in dead money against the salary cap. This financial impact complicates the Saints’ future flexibility and could destabilize a struggling defense that relies on Lattimore’s talent.

The Saints’ current record of 2-6 raises questions about their immediate future. If they continue to lose, a trade involving Lattimore could become imminent, reshaping the team’s roster and strategy for the remainder of the season. Potential suitors like the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens could emerge as interested parties, looking to bolster their defenses with Lattimore’s skills.

Ultimately, the decision to trade Lattimore signals a major shift in the Saints’ approach, prioritizing long-term assets over short-term gains. Balancing the allure of acquiring future draft picks with the potential backlash from fans and players who value Lattimore’s contributions will be crucial as the Saints navigate this critical juncture in their season. The coming days will determine whether the Saints hold onto their star cornerback or make a bold move to reshape their future.

NFL Analysis Names Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore as Possible Landing Spot for Marshon Lattimore

Chiefs, Marshon Lattimore, New Orleans Saints
Sep 18, 2023; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) and Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) meet post game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

In the event New Orleans decides to trade Lattimore, they may be looking at the Chiefs or Ravens as potential trade partners. This is explained more in Kristopher Knox’s analysis for Bleacher Report.

If the Chiefs aren’t done making moves, they should strongly consider making a play for Lattimore. Kansas City is now a defense-first team, and it lost cornerback Jaylen Watson to a fractured ankle in Week 7.

The Ravens should also be eager to land a corner of Lattimore’s caliber. Baltimore’s secondary has been its biggest liability, and injuries are beginning to mount on the perimeter.

Lattimore is at the center of trade discussions as the NFL deadline approaches. With the Saints struggling at 2-6, Lattimore’s strong performance this season has heightened his trade value. However, trading him could yield a significant cap hit of $10.8 million in dead money.

Chiefs, Marshon Lattimore, New Orleans Saints
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Samori Toure (83) scores a two point conversion against New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) in the fourth quarter during their football game Sunday, September 24, 2023, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.

While a move could provide valuable draft picks and cap relief, it risks weakening the defense further. Ultimately, the decision will reflect the Saints’ strategy for rebuilding versus competing in the near future.

Chiefs, Marshon Lattimore, New Orleans Saints
Oct 27, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins (27) is forced out-of-bounds by New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) after a first down in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images