The Washington Commanders are preparing to release cornerback Marshon Lattimore, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz. The move is expected to take place soon and will create significant salary cap relief for the team.
Financial Impact of Lattimore’s Release
By releasing Lattimore, the Commanders will free up $18.5 million in cap space for the 2026 season without incurring any dead money penalties, as reported by Over The Cap. This financial decision aligns with the team’s efforts to manage payroll flexibility moving forward.
Marshon Lattimore’s Career Background
Lattimore, 29, was originally selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints after a standout college career at Ohio State. He initially signed a four-year contract worth $15.35 million, which included a fifth-year option that the Saints exercised for the 2020 season, guaranteeing a base salary of $1.53 million that year.
In 2021, Lattimore was set to earn $10.244 million under this fifth-year option. Ahead of becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2022, he secured a five-year contract extension with the Saints worth up to $100 million.
Trade to Washington and Recent Performance
With three years remaining on his contract, Lattimore was traded to the Commanders just before the 2024 trade deadline in exchange for a third-round draft pick. His contract includes $18 million and $18.5 million salaries over the final two years, neither of which is guaranteed.
During the 2025 season, Lattimore participated in nine games, contributing 27 tackles, one tackle for loss, one interception, one fumble recovery, and seven pass deflections while playing for Washington.
Implications of the Release
The release of Marshon Lattimore reflects the Commanders’ strategy to adjust their roster and optimize salary cap space ahead of upcoming NFL seasons. This decision may lead to opportunities for younger players or new free-agent acquisitions as the team looks to improve its defensive backfield.
The #Commanders are currently expected to release cornerback Marshon Lattimore, sources tell @CBSSports.
The former first-round pick made nine starts for Washington this past season. pic.twitter.com/WAZ7SUHl7d
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) March 2, 2026
