Washington struck with its iron still hot.
The Commanders made the biggest splash at the NFL trade deadline, landing former Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
In return, Washington sent New Orleans third-, fourth- and sixth-round draft picks in the 2025 NFL Draft while receiving a 2025 fifth-rounder.
Washington (7-2) holds a half-game lead over the Philadelphia Eagles (6-2) for first place in the NFC East and got better with the Lattimore trade.
While he’s dealt with a hamstring injury this season, he’s a shutdown corner when healthy. In seven games this season, Lattimore has allowed 12 receptions on 22 targets (54.5 percent) for 114 yards and no touchdowns.
He gives the Commanders a true No. 1 corner as they prepare for the regular season’s second half.
This Sunday, Washington hosts the Steelers (6-2). It also plays the Eagles twice in a five-game span beginning on “Thursday Night Football” in Week 11.
In Week 3, Lattimore limited Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith to one reception for 14 yards on two targets. (h/t Pro Football Focus)
The Commanders have been led by outstanding rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who ranks fifth in MVP odds (+900). He’s 163-of-228 (71.5 percent) for 1,945 yards (8.5 yards per attempt), nine touchdowns and two interceptions this season while adding 459 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 82 carries.
Washington ranks third in scoring (29.2 points per game) and total offense (392 yards per game). Its defense ranks fifth against the pass, but its numbers have been bolstered in recent weeks against the Panthers, Bears, and Giants.
Lattimore, 28, will be an immediate contributor when active, but he isn’t just a one-year rental. He’s signed through 2026, giving Washington a cornerback in his prime for an extended period.
A rookie quarterback has never won the Super Bowl, but adding Lattimore gives the Commanders a better shot of making history while keeping their window open beyond 2024.