Dan Quinn makes strong statement after Commanders acquire Marshon Lattimore

The shockwaves are still reverberating around the Washington Commanders making a bombshell trade for stud cornerback Marshon Lattimore. It was a significant statement of intent, one that represents belief within the building that they can mount a potential postseason push much sooner than expected in Year 1 of this exciting project.

It was larger compensation that most anticipated general manager Adam Peters to part ways with at this stage of his rebuild. However, having someone capable of shutting down one side of the field and mixing it with the opposition's best-receiving threat is going to be a significant asset for this improving defense. This also makes life easier for the likes of Benjamin St-Juste and Mike Sainristil, who can return to roles they're best-suited thanks to Lattimore's presence.

This is exactly the sort of move that can get Washington over the hump and to the NFC East title. Expectations are reaching levels not seen for a decade or more. Lattimore's accomplished track record - if he can stay clear of injuries - should help attain them if everyone else continues to meet their end of the bargain.

Dan Quinn confident Marshon Lattimore can fit into Commanders' culture shift

Dan Quinn couldn't hide his delight about acquiring Lattimore during an interview on SiriusXM NFL Radio once the news became public knowledge. The head coach knows the player well having battled with him during his days in the NFC South. He also highlighted his exceptional man coverage skills and willingness to take on the biggest challenges as reasons behind his jubilation.

"We're gonna keep competing in every way we can, and this is another example of how to go and do that. We love his toughness, his ability to play man-to-man and guard people. I had first-hand experience of being on the other sideline against him during some years in Atlanta. For him to want to go and take on some of the No. 1 receivers, that's a big deal. If we had a chance to elevate who we are and how we go about doing our business, we're going to do that. We're really pumped to have him here."

- Dan Quinn

The Commanders have made a concerted effort to not make moves just for the sake of it. Most realized that they needed cornerback help to compete with the NFL's elite. Finding the right guy who could fit into the team's improved culture and collective mentality seamlessly was the most important thing above all else.

This was a sentiment echoed by Quinn. The former Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator revealed that Lattimore's old Ohio State teammates - Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown - were sounded out for their thoughts before Washington pulled the trigger. He added that players reached out to contact the four-time Pro Bowler immediately, which is a testament to how this group has come together in a short space of time.

"It's a really big deal. To know that they fit in with them [former Ohio State teammates], what they stood for. You knew you were hitting the right marks when all of a sudden you're getting his future teammates saying, 'Could you send me his number? I want to reach out to him.' When people are reaching out to a player before they get here, that's the type of group that's happening here and it's great to see."

- Dan Quinn

Lattimore is nursing a hamstring injury, but whether this will miraculously cure itself similar to Davante Adams' health complication following his trade to the New York Jets remains to be seen. Either way, the Commanders will be anticipating an immediate return on their investment when the defensive back gets into the lineup.

This looks like a home-run hit by the Commanders. They might not have the overall quality to beat teams like the Detroit Lions when the postseason arrives. However, this trade is proof they are going to give it their best shot.

That's nothing short of remarkable with this new era still in its infancy. If Lattimore's arrival via trade has the desired effect, there's just no telling what the Commanders could accomplish.

More Commanders news and analysis