When the Washington Commanders traded for Marshon Lattimore at the deadline during the 2024 season, they did so with their intentions set on going all-in for a deep playoff run.
They accomplished just that, making the NFC Championship game despite Lattimore playing in only five contests for Washington between the regular season and playoffs. That was enough for Matt Okada from NFL.com to suggest that the Commanders should cut the four-time Pro Bowler.
Okada notes that Lattimore struggled during the playoffs and the move would save Washington $18 million. Still, it would be an extremely short-sighted decision by the Commanders.
While the Commanders are in superb shape, they might rather spend those millions elsewhere as they seek to build around Jayden Daniels and become a lasting powerhouse in the NFC. It would be a bit surprising to trade for a player of [Marshon] Lattimore's career caliber and then cut him a few months later, but it might make too much sense, given all the variables.Matt Okada
Washington has the third-most cap space in the NFL at just over $82 million, so that shouldn't be a deal-breaker. Furthermore, Lattimore was in a tough situation as he was traded to the team while already injured. Because of that, the former first-round pick never quite got a chance to acclimate himself to Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive scheme.
Commanders have no intention to release Marshon Lattimore despite speculation
Even under the circumstances, Lattimore did have some impressive showings in limited action. His side of the field was held without a single target in his debut performance for the Commanders against his former team, the New Orleans Saints). The Ohio State product didn't allow a reception in Washington's electric divisional round win over the Detroit Lions.
With a full offseason to learn the ropes in Washington while restoring his body to full health, Lattimore could be a more consistently productive player for the Commanders in 2025. General manager Adam Peters seems to agree, explicitly stating in his exit presser last month that he would be part of the team over the offseason and into the next campaign.
It seems likely that Lattimore was only listed in the article because he is a big name who generates attention and clicks.
There are some veteran Commanders players, notably Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen, who could be justified as surprise cut candidates. Both long-time defensive linemen are on hefty contracts but have declined in their performance. They may not be the best fit with the current coaching staff.
Lattimore, however, should be off-limits.
Washington gave up a lot to acquire him, and releasing him without giving him a proper chance to return on their investment would be laughably foolish. He will be a member of the Commanders in 2025, despite the internet doing its best to stir up rumors.
