Lattimore’s Arrival: How the Star Cornerback Elevates the Commanders’ Defense
The Washington Commanders, sitting at a surprising 7-2 in early November 2024, made a bold move before the NFL trade deadline, acquiring four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. This acquisition sent ripples through the league, signaling the Commanders’ intent to solidify their defense and make a serious push for the playoffs. With the Commanders currently holding a 20-17 record in late September 2025, Lattimore’s impact on the team is now a focal point of analysis.
The Trade Details
In exchange for Lattimore and a 2025 fifth-round pick, the Commanders sent a 2025 third-round, fourth-round, and sixth-round pick to the Saints. This move was widely considered a win-now maneuver, as the Commanders aimed to capitalize on their strong start to the 2024 season. For the Saints, who were struggling with a 2-7 record, trading Lattimore marked the beginning of a potential roster overhaul.
Lattimore’s Resume: A Defensive Force
Marshon Lattimore entered the NFL as the 11th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Saints. He quickly established himself as a premier cornerback, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in his debut season. In 2017, Lattimore recorded five interceptions, 18 pass breakups, and 53 tackles. His impressive performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection and set the stage for a stellar career.
Throughout his time with the Saints, Lattimore consistently demonstrated his ability to shut down opposing receivers. From 2019 to 2021, he amassed six interceptions, 44 pass breakups, and 187 tackles, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top cornerbacks. Lattimore’s coverage skills were particularly noteworthy, as he allowed a low catch rate and consistently prevented touchdowns. According to Pro Football Focus, Lattimore did not allow a touchdown to be scored on him in coverage since 2021 prior to being traded to the Commanders.
Immediate Impact on the Commanders’ Defense
Lattimore’s arrival in Washington was expected to provide an immediate boost to the Commanders’ secondary. Prior to his arrival, the Commanders’ defense had shown promise but lacked a true shutdown corner. Lattimore’s presence allowed defensive coordinator Dan Quinn to implement more aggressive coverage schemes and match him up against the opponent’s top receiving threat.
Lattimore made his debut with the Commanders in Week 15 of the 2024 season, during a 20-19 victory against his former team, the New Orleans Saints. In that game, the Saints did not target Lattimore once, a testament to his reputation and coverage ability. By December 22, 2024, Lattimore recorded four combined tackles and three pass deflections during a 36-33 win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Unfortunately, a nagging hamstring injury resurfaced, causing him to miss the final two games of the season.
2025 Season: Lattimore’s Continued Influence
As the 2025 season progresses, Lattimore’s role in the Commanders’ defense remains crucial. While the team has made strides in other areas, such as run defense and third-down efficiency, the Commanders are still seeking to generate more turnovers. Through the first three games of the 2025 season, the Commanders are one of the few teams without a single defensive turnover.
Lattimore’s individual performance has been a mix of solid play and areas for improvement. According to PFF, Lattimore has a coverage grade of 48.4, ranking him 116th among cornerbacks. He has recorded two interceptions, placing him 22nd among cornerbacks, but his passer rating allowed is 87.8.
The Broader Defensive Picture
The Commanders’ defense has undergone significant changes in recent years, with the team focusing on adding size, length, and speed to the unit. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has expressed excitement about the new additions, including cornerback Trey Amos, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
In addition to Lattimore and Amos, the Commanders’ secondary includes safety Quan Martin and cornerback Mike Sainristil. The team also added veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner to bolster the run defense. Wagner’s presence, combined with the additions of defensive linemen Javon Kinlaw and Eddie Goldman, is expected to improve the Commanders’ ability to stop opposing running attacks.
As of Week 3 of the 2025 season, the Commanders’ defense ranks 20th in the NFL in total defense, allowing 329.7 yards per game. The team’s pass defense ranks 17th, allowing 210.0 passing yards per game. The Commanders have been more effective against the run, ranking among the top teams in run defense grade according to PFF.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the improvements, the Commanders’ defense still faces challenges. The team has struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and the lack of turnovers remains a concern. However, the addition of veteran pass rusher Von Miller could provide a boost in this area.
Looking ahead, the Commanders have an opportunity to solidify their defense and become a dominant force in the NFL. With Lattimore leading the secondary and a talented group of young players developing, the Commanders’ defense has the potential to be a key factor in the team’s success.