Dan Morgan took an aggressive approach to strengthening the Carolina Panthers’ defense this offseason, though the cornerback position remains largely untouched — for now.
One NFL analyst recently floated a bold idea: the Panthers should pursue four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
Anthony Palacios of Last Word on Sports included the Panthers among possible destinations for Marshon Lattimore. This came after Nate Davis of USA Today suggested that Lattimore’s future in Washington might be in doubt following the Commanders’ selection of cornerback Trey Amos with the 61st overall pick. Palacios argued that acquiring a physical, battle-tested corner like Lattimore could elevate Carolina’s defense enough to make a playoff push—if the price is reasonable.
“The Panthers are improving on both sides of the ball. While Mike Jackson and Jaycee Horn are entrenched as starters, someone like Lattimore could add valuable depth and rotation. They may not be postseason favorites just yet, but bringing in a few veterans with playoff experience could put them on the right path.”
— Anthony Palacios
Lattimore was traded to the Commanders before the 2024 deadline but failed to make an immediate impact due to a lingering hamstring injury that limited his effectiveness.
This offseason, rumors swirled about his potential departure, but Commanders GM Adam Peters quickly shut them down, expressing confidence in Lattimore’s ability to rebound after a full offseason to heal and adjust to the team’s scheme.
The addition of Amos isn’t meant to replace Lattimore but rather to give the Commanders another physical presence on the outside, which frees up Mike Sainristil to shift into the slot—his ideal role. With Jonathan Jones and Noah Igbinoghene also on the roster, Washington boasts five starting-caliber cornerbacks as they aim for another deep playoff run in 2025.
The Panthers, on the other hand, don’t have the same depth. Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson Sr. are expected to start on the outside, with Chau Smith-Wade likely manning the nickel. Beyond that, depth is lacking. Unless a lesser-known player makes a surprising leap, the secondary could face challenges.
While a trade for Lattimore could help address the issue, such a move still appears unlikely.