Dennis Allen, the Saints’ general manager, provides a shocking update on dealing Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore this summer. According to reports, Allen remains confident that the cornerback will return to the Saints this season, despite trade speculations circling. He also told reporters that he talked to Lattimore about the continuing trade talks. However, the two sides have been friendly, which could signal that he is sticking with the squad.
“I just thought it was something we needed to communicate,” he replied. “There’s been a lot of talk outside our building regarding trades and such topics. So I just felt it was about time we had that conversation. It was a nice conversation, and we’re forward to work with him when he gets here.”
It appears that Lattimore will remain with the Saints, but his absence from OTAs may cause problems if it persists into mandatory camp. He is now the sixth-highest-paid cornerback in the league, having signed a contract extension in 2021. However, his output has slowed over the last two seasons as he has missed 17 games in total. One could argue that he isn’t the same player he was following three consecutive Pro Bowl selections.
His injury history, along with the Saints’ salary cap concerns, does not bode well for the Pro Bowler. Michael Thomas’ relationship with New Orleans has previously been strained due to availability issues, which could repeat itself for Lattimore. It’s only a matter of time before Allen provides another update on trading Lattimore. Here are five possible trade scenarios for him.
Update On Trading Pro Bowler: Five Potential Trade Fits for Lattimore
Baltimore Ravens
Many sources suggested that the Ravens would trade for Lattimore early this summer, before the NFL Draft. It could come to light after Baltimore needs to improve its secondary. However, given his injury history, he could pose a risk to the Ravens. The most pressing need for Baltimore is a pass-rushing unit, so they might make a significant trade to add Lattimore in a more aggressive role.
With Jadeveon Clowney gone and Kyle Van Noy as the team’s lone seasoned defensive player, the Ravens now have more problems than answers. They could also change Lattimore’s position to a tough hitter at linebacker. If he can stay healthy, the Ravens will most likely be able to reach the Super Bowl.
According to a report, safety is still a requirement for the team, thus Lattimore fits into that backup scheme and might partner with Marlon Humphry.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs theoretically have one more hole to plug in their formidable defense. They haven’t had anyone to replace L’Jarius Sneed since he was traded to the Titans. Lattimore isn’t much in comparison to the Chiefs’ current roster, but he’s a low-risk choice. Kansas City didn’t select a cornerback until the sixth round, so it’s better than nothing.
Dallas Cowboys
This move already sounds like a dream, given that the Cowboys are doing little to enhance their roster. They are on the fence about cap room after having to extend Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Nobody should expect this trade to go through, but Dallas may give up a couple late round picks in exchange for Lattimore. Although he is no longer in his peak, he provides an upgrade as there has been no effort to bring back Stephan Gilmore.
Carolina Panthers
Contract discussions with Gilmore are stagnating, so they might as well try to sign Lattimore. They have similar features, therefore the Panthers might easily contemplate this move. However, the Saints are unlikely to move their premier player to a rival, but everything is possible in the NFL. Carolina should be able to make one more move before the next season to improve their defense.
Los Angeles Chargers
Where are the moves being made to improve their defense? They’re doing everything they can to improve the offense to aid Justin Herbert, but the defense is lacking in potency as Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa return. Kristian Fulton, like Asante Samuel Jr., does not appear to be a long-term solution, therefore they may want another piece.
Leave a Reply