Key Highlights
- NFL analyst Greg Cosell affirmed that Marshon Lattimore is not the player he once was.
- Lattimore’s performance has regressed significantly since joining the Washington Commanders via trade from the New Orleans Saints.
- The Commanders have adjusted their coverage scheme to mask Lattimore’s inconsistencies, using him less as a matchup corner.
- Despite his decline, the Commanders are not considering benching Lattimore and will let things play out for the season.
The Regression of Marshon Lattimore: A Major Miss?
NFL analyst Greg Cosell recently reaffirmed a harsh truth about Washington Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore, stating that he is not the player he once was. This assessment comes as the Commanders face significant challenges on their defensive side, particularly with Lattimore’s performance having regressed since his trade from the New Orleans Saints.
Lattimore, a four-time Pro Bowler, had high expectations when he joined the Washington Commanders in 2021. His arrival was seen as an exciting new era for the team, indicating that general manager Adam Peters aimed to win now and maximize rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels’s contract before it became more expensive.
Lattimore’s Decline on Display
However, Lattimore has not lived up to expectations. His 44.0 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks him 108th out of 113 qualifying cornerbacks. For every positive rep he puts together, there are three bad ones, a trend that is not going unnoticed by fans or opposing defenses. They now actively target Lattimore as a weak link in the Commanders’ defense.
Adjustments to Game Plan
Commanders coaches have had to adapt their coverage scheme due to Lattimore’s inconsistencies. He no longer plays as a matchup corner and is limited to playing on one side, with Trey Amos taking over the other side. This change in strategy reflects that they were counting on him to be a reliable player capable of lining up and playing man-to-man coverage, but he is not meeting these expectations anymore.
Commanders’ Response
The Commanders are not considering benching Lattimore at this stage. They plan to let things play out for the remainder of the season before making any drastic decisions. However, his status beyond the current campaign is firmly hanging in the balance.
A major turnaround is needed if Lattimore wants to avoid being an $18 million problem.
Despite facing significant challenges, Lattimore remains resolute and has not backed down from this test yet. The Commanders are giving him a chance to prove himself, but time will tell whether he can rise to the occasion or if a change in strategy is necessary to strengthen their defensive lineup.
Conclusion
A Critical Test for Lattimore
The regression of Marshon Lattimore presents a stern test for the Washington Commanders. While they remain committed to giving him another chance, his performance must improve significantly if he wants to maintain his position and contribute effectively to the team’s defensive efforts.
