Washington Commanders fans are eagerly anticipating how general manager Adam Peters will approach the 2024 trade deadline. Speculation has been rampant. Expectations have also changed for this once-struggling franchise following their sensational 7-2 start to the campaign.
Calls are being made, that's almost a prerequisite for contending teams. This is a new experience for the Commanders after years among the league's bottom feeders. Fortunately, that's not the case with Peters, who's been around winning organizations and knows how to strike a good deal.
Nothing has materialized as yet, but that hasn't stopped the rumor mill from churning. One of the biggest names being touted with a move away is prolific cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who could be made surplus to requirements following the New Orleans Saints' decision to fire head coach Dennis Allen after a seven-game losing run.
Analyst believes Commanders could get Marshon Lattimore for third-round pick
Negotiating a deal for the four-time Pro Bowl defensive back might be tricky. However, Tyler Brooke from The 33rd Team thought the Commanders might be able to acquire Lattimore for one of their two third-round selections. They also have enough salary-cap space to take on his salary in the final two years of his deal.
"It's time for the Washington Commanders to take a big swing because they're firmly in the driver's seat in the NFC East. While the Saints are struggling, [Marshon] Lattimore continues to be an impact corner. He's allowing a passer rating of just 74.4 this season despite having zero interceptions and has allowed just one touchdown when targeted over the last three seasons, according to PFF. The Saints need to get Lattimore's contract off of their books, and the Commanders could use a star veteran who is under contract through the 2026 season. It might cost a bit to acquire such a solid player, but the Commanders have two third-round picks in 2025, so giving one up for a player like Lattimore could quickly elevate the team's ceiling."Tyler Brooke, The 33rd Team
This would be an exceptional addition for the Commanders in a position of need. Lattimore's previous accomplishments need no introduction. He's also been performing at a high level this season despite dealing with some injury issues. Whether it's the sort of move that entices Peters at this stage of Washington's rebuild is another matter.
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The front-office leader has been keen to preserve financial flexibility during his first few months in the role. Taking on Lattimore's deal goes away from that, so this might be a non-starter unless a financial compromise can be reached.
At the same time, the Commanders have a shot to win the NFC East and make the postseason much sooner than most anticipated. Getting someone with Lattimore's credentials - a player who can thrive in press coverage and lock down one side of the field with minimal fuss - changes everything for this improving yet vulnerable defense.
It's also apparent that Washington must maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels' rookie contract before he gets what could be a record-breaking extension after Year 3 of his professional career. That could raise the urgency to get a productive presence who can fit into the team's culture shift and slot seamlessly into Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive scheme. Lattimore ticks the boxes in that regard.
Peters won't panic. He has a plan and will do his due diligence. Nothing can or should be dismissed in the coming hours, but fans can relax safe in the knowledge they have the right guy spearheading this ambitious route to sustained prosperity.