Washington Commanders have officially released star cornerback Marshon Lattimore as the NFL free agency period approaches. This decision leaves the four-time Pro Bowler without a team just before the new league year begins on March 11 at 4:00pm ET, marking a significant moment in Lattimore’s career.
Details Behind the Release and Financial Implications
The Commanders informed Lattimore of their intention to release him on Monday, according to ESPN. By moving forward with his release, the team will clear $18.5 million in salary cap space, a major financial consideration as they reshape their roster for the upcoming season. Lattimore had joined Washington midway through the 2024 season but appeared only in five games due to a hamstring injury.
Injury Challenges and Limited Playtime with the Commanders
Despite joining the Commanders during the previous campaign, Lattimore’s contributions were limited by injuries. He participated in all three of Washington’s postseason games last season but was sidelined in the current year after suffering a torn ACL in his left knee during Week 9, restricting him to nine appearances this season.
Background: Lattimore’s Trade to Washington and Career Overview
Lattimore was traded to Washington from the New Orleans Saints in exchange for three 2025 draft picks — a third, fourth, and sixth rounder — along with a fifth-round pick from the Commanders. During his more than seven seasons with the Saints, Lattimore earned four Pro Bowl selections and was considered a key defensive player. However, his recent injury history has been a concern, with significant setbacks beginning in 2022, including a lacerated kidney and broken ribs.
Financial and Career Impact Moving Forward
With career earnings of about $104 million, Marshon Lattimore faces uncertainty in the NFL market as free agency opens next week. His release is a notable roster change for the Commanders, who are reallocating funds likely to strengthen other positions ahead of the new season. Lattimore’s future team remains unknown, with upcoming free agency negotiations expected to determine his next chapter in professional football.
“On Monday, the Commanders told Lattimore that he will be released, per ESPN.” ?ESPN Report
“By releasing Lattimore, the Commanders will save $18.5m in cap space.” ?Unnamed Source
“Lattimore did appear in all three of Washington’s postseason games.” ?Unnamed Source
“Then, this season, Lattimore played nine games but tore the ACL in his left knee in Week 9.” ?Unnamed Source
“The New Orleans Saints received three 2025 draft picks (third, fourth and sixth) in exchange for Lattimore and a fifth-round pick.” ?Unnamed Source
“Lattimore earned four Pro Bowl nods during his seven-plus-year tenure with the Saints.” ?Unnamed Source
“Lattimore has banked around $104 million in his career to date.” ?Unnamed Source
