After recognizing their potential to compete in the NFC, the Washington Commanders traded for experienced cornerback Marshon Lattimore to create a well-rounded sense of security in the secondary. Most people believe, however, that Washington gave up too much in the trade, dealing away a third, fourth, and fifth-round NFL Draft pick to the New Orleans Saints.
The trade's aftermath was forgetful as Lattimore missed the next six games with a hamstring injury. Once he returned, he didn't make a positive first impression on his new fanbase.
He played the last two regular-season games and Washington's impressive run to the NFC Championship Game. Most Commanders fans will remember his frequency to draw pass interference penalties and his fight with Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown more than anything else during that stretch.
Now entering 2025 - where Washington will pay him a near top-of-the-market $18 million - the Commanders must demand that Lattimore returns to his Pro Bowl ways to give the team any shot at living up to their Super Bowl expectations.
Washington beefed up the interior adding Javon Kinlaw and Deatrich Wise after Eagles running back Saquon Barkley walked all over the Commanders' defense last season. If Lattimore continues to struggle, however, the defense will remain a liability.
Lattimore should have the opportunity to play opposite of promising rookie Trey Amos, who brings good size for this run-stopping agenda. A more motivated Lattimore should help bring Amos along and spark some playmaking from the Washington secondary.
Lattimore hasn't reached 50 tackles in a season since his fourth and latest Pro Bowl selection in 2021. The Commanders are going to need to see that version of their high-priced corner in 2025 if he stays healthy.
The Commanders paid a lot for Lattimore, and all signs currently show that the confidence in him hasn't wavered. Maybe a full season of good health in the nation's capital will be a turning point that gets his play back to the level we're accustomed to.
Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon says Lattimore is Washington's "most overpaid player".
It took a lot to get him, and his contract will cost a lot to keep him over the next two years.
If he rises to the occasion, the Commanders will deem the success of their investment on his performance. Not just throughout the regular season, but when it matters in the playoffs, too.
After a slow start to his Commanders career, Lattimore has a lot to prove in confirming that his trade was worthwhile.
