Commanders fans lose their minds after fearless Marshon Lattimore swoop

These are not the Washington Commanders of old. Fans are still getting used to that fact, but trading for New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore is another example of this franchise moving differently.

Adam Peters saw how things were unfolding with the Commanders and adapted accordingly.

This was the first year of his rebuilding project. It's gone far better than even the brightest optimist anticipated. He wouldn't admit it publicly, but Washington's immediate resurgence probably took the new general manager by surprise.

Peters wasn't just going to trade for the sake of it. He's a lot more calculated, moving with a purpose and precision while also keeping the long-term vision in mind. The former San Francisco 49ers executive also knows how to take opportunities with ruthless efficiency when they present themselves.

Acquiring Lattimore from under the Kansas City Chiefs' noses was a masterstroke. They also received a fifth-round selection in exchange for third, fourth, and sixth-round picks. This fills a glaring need with a four-time Pro Bowler who boasts the right competitive fire that should be a major asset to this franchise on and off the field.

Commanders fans enter delirium after Marshon Lattimore trade

Speculation picked up in the hours and minutes before the news broke. Fans went from nervously awaiting developments to complete delirium, losing their collective minds on social media as their dreams became reality.

This is just a small sample, but you get the picture. The Commanders are on the up. They might not be on the Detroit Lions' level just yet, but they want to find out.

Lattimore is an elite shutdown presence who thrives in man coverage. He immediately becomes Washington's top cornerback option. This should also allow rookie second-rounder Mike Sainristil to move into his preferred nickel slot despite showing promise on the outside in recent weeks.

It's a move for the future, too. Lattimore is still just 28 years old with a lot of good football left. He's got two years remaining on his deal after this season. The possibility of an extension to ease his salary-cap number cannot be completely dismissed if things go well over the second half of 2024.

Fans can scarcely believe what's unfolding in front of their eyes. This time last year saw attention turn to the draft after the Commanders traded Chase Young and Montez Sweat to signal the start of their comprehensive rebuild. It's amazing what can happen when you hire the right people and draft a franchise quarterback.

The Commanders are not the finished product just yet even with Lattimore's arrival. However, this move got them a lot closer that's for sure.

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