5 winners (and 2 losers) from Commanders' trade for Marshon Lattimore
By Dean Jones
Winner No. 3
Adam Peters - Commanders GM
Adam Peters drew rave reviews for his expert roster overhaul throughout a dramatic first offseason at the helm. The Washington Commanders made the right hire to spearhead this storied franchise into a prosperous new era. Trading for Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore is the general manager's most aggressive move by a considerable margin.
It's a sign of his willingness to adapt to an ever-improving situation. Peters could have easily sat on his hands in the hope Washington's current group could continue a remarkable opening to the campaign. Instead, the new front office leader struck with conviction for a proven performer who also fits into the team's long-term ethos.
Lattimore's talent far outweighs the compensation if he gets a clear run of luck on the health front. If this transaction also gets Washington over the hump to an NFC East division title, it was worth the risk.
The Commanders are rapidly becoming an attractive destination once again. Peters' shrewd roster management while always keeping the bigger picture in mind is a big reason why. This trade was just another prime example.
Winner No. 4
Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
Mike Sainristil has been a fantastic team player this season. The rookie second-round selection came into the Commanders with intentions to be their starting nickel cornerback, which is the position he starred at Michigan en route to a memorable college football national championship in 2023.
These plans altered quickly. The Commanders' lack of consistency on the perimeter forced Sainristil to become an outside option. There was an expected adjustment period for the player, but he deserves credit for applying himself well and showing real promise over the last month.
With the Commanders making a bold trade to acquire Marshon Lattimore, this could potentially see Sainristil return to interior responsibilities. This allows him to do what he does best - provide solid inside coverage, be utilized on blitz packages, and make his presence felt against the run.
There's a chance Washington keeps the No. 50 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft as an outside option. Even so, this looks like a great time to deploy Sainristil in the role that he was originally intended over the second half of the season.