Washington Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore is sweet on his blossoming health. He’s primed to make his best lasting impression when the NFL summons him back to pro football next season. After a frustrating season lost to injury and other issues, Lattimore can’t wait to get onto the field and prove himself. He stated, “I wanted to show what I could do. I was hurt but I don’t want to make excuses. I was out there. If I was good enough to play, I can be evaluated on that. I just want to get out there this year to show what I could do.”
Lattimore came to the Commanders in November, as part of a trade that sent multiple draft picks to the Arizona Cardinals. The Commanders traded a third-, fourth- and sixth-round selection to get him, plus a fifth-rounder. A four-time Pro Bowler, Lattimore would provide championship experience and talent to any team. He’s an injury risk, having played in just 26 games combined over the last three seasons.
Yet, even during his debut against his former team, Lattimore wasn’t targeted. In the subsequent game against the then undefeated Philadelphia Eagles, he had a brutal day going up against wide receiver A.J. Brown. He gave up numerous chunk plays and was flagged for a defensive pass interference in the end zone. Jason Simmons, the Commanders’ defensive pass game coordinator, noted that Lattimore had not disclosed how much his hamstring injury impacted his performance during those games.
In fact, Lattimore had to miss the first four games with Washington because of a hamstring injury he suffered prior. This serious injury had a profound effect on Williams’ performance. He did however testify to having made progress since then. “I feel way better than last year. I feel explosive,” Lattimore said, emphasizing his current state of health.
That’s why Lattimore made the choice to miss all of these voluntary workouts this spring in order to better get ready for the season. He made the same decision in stints with the New Orleans Saints. What’s really important to him, though, is regaining that form and once again becoming a force on the Commanders’ defense.
On Wednesday, Lattimore’s potential was on full display when he broke up a pass headed toward receiver Noah Brown. This stupendous play is a microcosm of how he’s beginning to regain that former stride. Simmons remarked on Lattimore’s potential, stating, “The only thing he’ll tell you is, ‘I can play.’”
With the regular season fast approaching, Lattimore will look to show that he can be that value and something more, justifying the Commanders’ investment. “I wanted to prove they made the right decision,” he said, showcasing his determination to excel on the field.
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