Why Marshon Lattimore Is Answer for Lions at Cornerback

Could Lattimore help Lions win Super Bowl?

The Detroit Lions have many talented pieces in place as they set their sights on a Super Bowl run in 2024. 

Throughout the early part of the offseason, the Lions have spent a significant amount of resources to upgrade their defense. In particular, they’ve added a pair of cornerbacks in Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson. 

With the struggles at the cornerback position last year, general manager Brad Holmes has wasted little time fortifying the depth at the position. However, a wrench got thrown in the team’s plans with Cam Sutton being released amidst an ongoing legal situation.

The organization could benefit from adding another piece at the position. One option is Marshon Lattimore, whom the Lions’ staff has familiarity with from their days in New Orleans. 

Drafted by the Saints in 2017, Lattimore began his career when Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn were coaching under Sean Payton on the Saints’ staff. He started with a bang, picking off five passes en route to winning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. 

In the years since, Lattimore has established himself as a standout corner. He has 15 career interceptions over sever seasons. 

Last season, he finished with a 69.1 Pro Football Focus coverage grade and a 67.4 overall defensive grade. 

Lattimore does carry a hefty contract, though the base salary has been diluted due to restructures as the Saints try to navigate out from the weight of their salary cap situation. Still, the Lions have the necessary cap space to be comfortable making a deal. 

With Davis and Robertson in the picture, the Lions have two capable options at cornerback. However, they still lack a true shutdown presence that Lattimore offers when healthy. 

As a result, Lattimore could wind up being the missing piece for the Lions. His length on the perimeter and prowess in coverage would be an asset for Detroit’s secondary. 

Injuries have limited the defender in recent years, as he played in just 10 games last season and seven the year prior. 

However, if he remains healthy, he would be a difference-maker for the Lions’ secondary.