The Washington Commanders release Marshon Lattimore, and thus save themselves $18.5 million in salary cap space.
The Commanders released Lattimore ahead of the league year and begin their search for a replacement. The new league year starts at 4 p.m. ET on March 11. Washington now ranks fifth in available cap space.
The Commanders plan to chase free agents aggressively. They especially need help at cornerback. They already have two young options on the roster. Trey Amos started as a rookie last season. He broke his leg in Week 10. Mike Sainristil started for the past two seasons as a 2024 second-round pick.
Lattimore Was A Costly Decision
Washington acquired Lattimore from the Saints at the 2024 trade deadline. They sent three draft picks and received one back. The Saints got Washington’s third-, fourth- and sixth-round choices — in exchange for the cornerback and a fifth-round pick.
Lattimore missed eight games due to a hamstring injury last year. He did play in all three of Washington’s postseason games.
Before coming to the Commanders, he made four Pro Bowls early in his career. Injuries limited him after 2021. He has not played more than 10 games in a season since then.
Lattimore had an interception and a fumble recovery during his time with the Commanders, as well as 31 tackles.
The release is significant as Washington reshape their defense. The move gives Washington more financial flexibility to improve the roster this offseason.