Marshon Lattimore trade update exhibits Commanders' enhanced conviction

Trading for Marshon Lattimore was a stunning development for the Washington Commanders. It was no secret that they were looking for cornerback help after a sensational 7-2 start to the campaign. Nobody predicted they would land a big fish and signal the start of their Super Bowl window.

This went against the grain of what general manager Adam Peters has done so far in his brief tenure. The front office leader spent his first few months being methodical and seemed more interested in stockpiling assets than giving them away. But with things progressing quickly and expectations rising, he opted to pivot accordingly.

Lattimore is a high-quality cornerback who can completely change how Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. implement their defensive strategy. A quick transition is needed, but this looks like the sort of environment he can thrive thanks to Washington's improved culture shift under the new regime.

Insider outlines surprise at Commanders' late swoop for Marshon Lattimore

The news came as a shock to those around the league. ESPN's senior insider Jeremy Fowler (subscription required) was one of those taken aback by the Commanders' bold move, revealing that they entered the Lattimore sweepstakes relatively late. Something he believes cements the inner belief within the building that this team can achieve great things in Year 1 of head coach Dan Quinn's reign.

"What's funny is I don't think the Commanders expected to be contenders. They did not inherit a great roster. Multiple people around the league have pointed out how well Quinn has done with a defense that isn't bursting with high-level talent. This was supposed to be the bridge season to something greater. But rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels' brilliant play -- coupled with good coaching, a few quality supplemental moves and the infectious nature of winning -- has Washington believing in something greater. So, I don't think the Lattimore move was telegraphed. The Commanders got involved late in the process. After all, they essentially needed nine weeks to realize what they had."

- Jeremy Fowler, ESPN

This is all about reacting to ever-changing circumstances. Peters probably wasn't anticipating Washington to be in any position to acquire someone like Lattimore's credentials. When the team started winning and momentum began to build, that was enough to improve his conviction in the team's aspirations.

It also shows what an outstanding negotiator Peters is. He identified a primary target and got a good deal for the organization. Considering the Saints restructured Lattimore's contract earlier this year, the Commanders are getting him for the veterans' minimum over the second half of 2024.

Fans have complete faith in Peters. His first draft class unearthed some gems and found a franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels. A plethora of free-agent signings are making their presence felt positively. The addition of Quinn and an accomplished coaching staff spearheaded a seismic shift in mentality on the field and in the locker room.

Lattimore is not the final piece of the puzzle. However, he's someone at the top of his game who gives the Commanders something they don't have right now; a genuine shutdown presence with the mentality to never back down from a challenge.

It'll be interesting to see if that's enough for Washington to attain playoff football or win the NFC East when it's all said and done.

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