The Washington Commanders made a bold gamble at last season’s trade deadline, sending three draft picks to acquire Marshon Lattimore and a fifth-round pick.
It was a clear “win-now” strategy, but it didn’t quite pay off. Lattimore missed his first four games with the Commanders due to a lingering hamstring injury. He finally debuted in Week 15 and impressed right away—so much so that not a single pass was thrown in his direction.
Unfortunately, the momentum didn’t last. In Week 16, he re-injured the same hamstring, forcing him to miss the final two games of the regular season. Though he returned for the postseason, his performances fell far short of expectations.
In Washington’s three playoff games, Lattimore received Pro Football Focus grades of 26.5, 58.0, and 35.6. He allowed 10 receptions for 172 yards and a touchdown and was flagged three times.
Adding to fans’ concerns, Lattimore opted out of voluntary OTAs. But he silenced the critics at minicamp, showing up in peak form. Reports from those in attendance noted a noticeable improvement in his agility and movement—he appeared fully recovered and played without hesitation.
Lattimore also revealed earlier in the week that he feels confident heading into the new season, finally free from the physical and mental setbacks that hampered him last year.
“I feel good.” Lattimore said. “It’s been a full offseason to get healthy. I feel great, I’ve been working a lot, getting in better shape than I obviously was last year dealing with an injury, so I feel good. Just the burst, getting out of my breaks and all that. I was dealing with a hamstring, you know that takes a lot out of you. It takes a long time to heal, and I was just trying to battle through that. But now, with a full offseason, I feel great. I feel more explosive.”
If Marshon Lattimore can return to his Pro Bowl form, what was once a potential weak spot could quickly become a strength for the Commanders’ defense. His resurgence would elevate the entire cornerback unit.
Mike Sainristil appears ready for a breakout year, while rookie second-rounder Trey Amos brings fresh talent and upside.
Add seasoned veterans Jonathan Jones and Noah Igbinoghene to the mix, and Washington suddenly has a deep and competitive group of corners with five strong options to rely on.
