Trade Talks About Saints’ Marshon Lattimore Intensifying

Saints have moved on from head coach Dennis Allenthough that decision isn’t expected to pave the way for a mass selloff of veterans ahead of today’s trade deadline. However, one name in particular is still the subject of much attention.

Cornerback Marshon Lattimore again finds itself as a trade target. When the deadline approaches, veteran insider Josina Anderson reports talks are “heating up,” adding that more suitors are in play. A high third round pick could be sufficient in this case, by Nick Underhill of NewOrleansFootball.com. A report this past weekend named the Chiefs as a suitor for the four-time Pro Bowler.

Kansas City has already added offense (receiver DeAndre Hopkins) and defense (edge ​​rusher Josh Uche) prior to the deadline. The defending champions improved to 8-0 last night, so they represent an obvious candidate to make further moves in the coming hours. Kansas City could use a starting caliber corner Jaylen Watson unlikely to return this season.

Lattimore’s Saints future has long been a topic of conversation, and in the build-up to the draft, teams were aware he was on the market. In the end, New Orleans chose to keep the 28-year-old in the fold (although a trade was considered). After receiving an option bonus just before the start of the year, Lattimore is owed only the outstanding portion of his $1.21MM base salary in 2024.

The former Defensive Rookie of the Year is also under contract for the 2025 and ’26 seasons as one of many Saints involved in cap-related financial adjustments. Lattimore is due a base salary of $16MM and $16.5MM for those years, but none of that compensation is guaranteed. However, on March 20 of next year (as well as the year after that), he is due a $2MM bonus. That, along with projected cap hits of $31.41MM and $28.56MM, makes his pact in need of further changes should a trade happen.

Lattimore has spent his entire eight-year career with the Saints, starting all 97 of his appearances. The Ohio State product has dealt with multiple injuries in recent years, a factor potential suitors take into account. Nevertheless, he could provide effective play in coverage for any number of teams looking for a boost in the secondary. The teams have until 3pm central to complete a trade involving Lattimore or any other players the 2-7 Saints might be willing to part with.