The Washington Commanders are in the midst of some substantial changes. Not entirely surprising when one considers the wreck that eventually became their 2025 season, but it's enough to put everyone on edge regarding their fortunes heading into the 2026 campaign.
General manager Adam Peters has some tough choices to make. However, a respected Commanders insider believes there is one simple roster decision staring Washington's front-office leader in the face.
And it's something fans have been shouting about for months.
Commanders insider believes Marshon Lattimore could be cut after disastrous season
Nicki Jhabvala from The Athletic thought releasing cornerback Marshon Lattimore with one year remaining on his deal seemed feasible. His unreliable performance levels, current injury timeline, and recent offseason arrest dictate nothing less, especially given the savings attached and the absence of dead-cap ramifications.
"[Marshon] Lattimore has lacked the explosiveness he had in his prime, and at times got handsy to compensate. He had seven defensive penalties for 89 yards in only nine games this season. If there’s a move Washington ends up regretting over the last two seasons, it’s probably this trade. Cutting him will save $18.5 million against the cap."Nick Jhabvala, The Athletic
Jhabvala is right. This bombshell trade to acquire the four-time Pro Bowler from the New Orleans Saints comes with regret attached. Peters was right to be aggressive in pursuit of the Commanders getting over the hump, but Lattimore was never able to reach the heights that saw him become one of the league's most feared shutdown corners once upon a time.
It was a massive swing from Peters. Unfortunately for Washington, it didn't pay off, and the torn ACL that Lattimore suffered against the Seattle Seahawks will probably be the last memory Commanders fans will have of him in the famous burgundy and gold.
The Commanders would get an extra $18.5 million to spend, and they need every available asset to make the roster enhancements needed. Lattimore faces a long road back to recovery, so there is no telling how much he will be able to contribute with a reprieve. There is no better time for Peters to end this costly experiment, and the former Ohio State standout knows what's coming next.
There needs to be a rethink in Washington's cornerback room this offseason. Second-round rookie Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil will be back, but the rest could all be free to take their chances elsewhere. Much will depend on the scheme the new defensive coordinator plans to run. Still, the Commanders' decision to part ways with Lattimore appears to be a foregone conclusion.
And based on how things have unfolded since his blockbuster arrival, Lattimore can have no complaints.