Winner No. 1
Zach Ertz - Commanders TE
Zach Ertz could be forgiven for feeling a sense of nostalgia. He won a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles and remains beloved by their fanbase. But his sole focus was helping the Washington Commanders reach the grandest stage of all.
The veteran tight end did everything he could. Ertz got open consistently and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels trusted him to come through in key moments. There was one disappointing drop, but the former second-round pick out of Stamford put together a superb effort aside from that.
Ertz brought in 11 receptions from 16 targets for 104 receiving yards. His reliability and body control allowed Daniels to keep the chains moving. The Commanders came unstuck in the red zone more often than not. Even so, the Pro Bowler was one of the few shining lights amid the doom and gloom.
This season represented a road to redemption for Ertz. He got a hero's reception from Eagles fans upon leaving the field and shared an emotional embrace with ex-teammate Fletcher Cox in the tunnel. The Commanders fell short in the end, but his resurgence could see another contract come his way at some stage this offseason.
The Commanders shouldn't settle at any position group. However, keeping Ertz around on another one-year deal if he wants to continue his playing career would be wise.
Loser No. 2
Marshon Lattimore - Commanders CB
The Commanders were expecting big things from cornerback Marshon Lattimore following his arrival via trade from the New Orleans Saints. Those in power felt like his shutdown capabilities and willingness to lock up the league's best wide receivers were traits this defense sorely lacked. Unfortunately, things didn't go according to plan.
Lattimore struggled to shake off a hamstring injury. He never looked comfortable despite two impressive displays against the Saints and Detroit Lions. The four-time Pro Bowler went through significant complications at the Eagles and frustrations boiled over.
The Ohio State product found life difficult versus A.J. Brown. He gave up a crucial fourth-down drive and a defensive pass interference penalty in quick succession. He got flagged for unnecessary roughness after losing his cool and tussling with the wide receiver. Considering Lattimore's experience in big games, this was extremely frustrating.
Washington traded for Lattimore with the long-term in mind. Some in the media are speculating about whether he'll become a salary-cap casualty this offseason, which seems unlikely. Hopefully, some prolonged rest and a full preparation period with the organization could bring about improved performance levels next time around.
The jury is still out on Lattimore. A big effort is needed to turn the tide.