Marshon Lattimore - Commanders CB
The early signs are immensely positive around Marshon Lattimore this offseason. Things didn't go the cornerback's way following his trade to the Washington Commanders. Even so, there's a growing sense he can make a much bigger impact in 2025 after finally recovering from a frustrating hamstring issue.
Lattimore never felt right. He tried valiantly to help the Commanders, but the once-prolific shutdown presence was a shell of his typical self. Speculation about his future quickly emerged once the campaign concluded. However, general manager Adam Peters wasn't going to throw in the towel.
The former first-round pick out of Ohio State turned up at Washington's mandatory minicamp looking like a different player. Lattimore was healthy, explosive, and agile. He wasn't any of those things over the second half of 2024 and into the playoffs.
There's also a steely determination within the player to repay the faith shown in him by the Commanders. Lattimore knows the stakes have been raised, and he's striving to make a bigger impact on proceedings. He's got the talent to achieve this objective, but Washington formed contingency plans in case he cannot return to his Pro Bowl-caliber production.
The Commanders re-signed Noah Igbinoghene. They acquired Jonathan Jones in free agency and spent the No. 61 overall pick on Trey Amos. Lattimore remains the top guy. That won't be for much longer if the performance levels don't improve.
Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB
The Commanders seem confident that the running backs can raise consistency with a more productive offensive line in front of them. Adam Peters added seventh-round pick Jacory Croskey-Merritt, but those who gained significant responsibilities last season are getting another shot this time around.
It's a big gamble, but one that could pay off handsomely.
Austin Ekeler is under more scrutiny than most. The veteran joined the Commanders last spring after a prolific stint with the Los Angeles Chargers. He was primarily deployed in pass-catching situations while also earning second-team All-Pro honors as a kick returner. Hopefully, the same trend will continue in the final year of his deal.
However, there are concerns. Ekeler suffered major concussion issues last season. He's also on the wrong side of 30 years old, which is ancient by running-back standards these days. The Commanders will monitor his production closely. If things start to tail off, don't be surprised if Croskey-Merritt starts eating into his reps.
Keeping Ekeler fresh is key. The Commanders could take him off kick return duties with Luke McCaffrey and rookie Jaylin Lane capable of carrying the burden. That'll allow the former Western Colorado standout to focus on his offensive duties and decrease the risk of more concussion issues arising.
That would be catastrophic.