Commanders made a massive bet on Marshon Lattimore (and there's no going back)

The Washington Commanders are seeing something different in Marshon Lattimore this offseason. Although it's an immensely positive development, it remains to be seen whether this transitions into a competitive setting.

And make no mistake, Washington's defensive hopes could rest on his shoulders more than any other player.

Second-year general manager Adam Peters believed the Commanders were in a good enough place to make a daring trade for Lattimore before the 2024 deadline. He came into the franchise with a hamstring injury, but those in power were confident that the cornerback could shrug it off to make a lasting contribution down the stretch.

Unfortunately, that didn't happen. It's been well documented how Lattimore found life difficult with the issue limiting his movement when on the field. He's fully healed now, and the improved sharpness and agility over Washington's mandatory minicamp represented a breath of fresh air.

Commanders are hoping Marshon Lattimore can stay healthy after indifferent trade returns

This was the biggest positive imaginable in the face of the worst sustained criticism Lattimore's received since entering the league as a first-round pick out of Ohio State. He's feeling good again and is ready to silence his doubters. However, this is still a precarious situation until further notice.

Pro Football Focus raised the stakes around Lattimore, naming him as Washington's biggest X-factor entering the 2025 campaign. Others, such as Daron Payne and Deebo Samuel Sr., could have held the same distinction, but it's hard to argue with their choice.

Lattimore shouldn't be lacking in motivation next season. If the scathing media ridicule wasn't enough, he's also got no more guaranteed money on his contract in 2026, which is the last of his current deal.

If the four-time Pro Bowler can remind the NFL world why he was regarded among the league's best shutdown coverage presences once upon a time, and stay relatively injury-free along the way, that might be enough for Peters to give Lattimore a long-term commitment. Anything less could see him released or traded with $18.5 million in savings attached.

Everyone knows how good Lattimore is when he's fit and firing on all cylinders. Keeping him healthy is the most important part of this equation. If it's accomplished effectively, there's just no telling what the gifted defensive back could achieve.

And Washington's aspirations to go one better next time around will be better off for it.

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