NFL Trade Deadline Grades: Cowboys Flop and a Missed Cheetah Opportunity

The Trade Breakdown: Commanders vs. Saints The deal saw the Washington Commanders acquiring Lattimore, alongside a fifth-round pick in 2025, while the Saints received a third-, fourth-, and sixth-round pick in the same year. This trade highlights two contrasting strategies—Washington's urgent need for defensive reinforcement and New Orleans' focus on long-term planning. Commanders' Grade: A- For the Commanders, this trade is a calculated risk that could pay off in a big way. Lattimore, a former Pro Bowler, has the potential to revitalize a struggling defense that has been overshadowed by the offensive firepower of quarterback Sam Howell and the team's impressive skill players. The Commanders' defense has been inconsistent, and adding a player of Lattimore's caliber could be the catalyst they need to turn things around. While Lattimore's performance has dipped since 2021, it's crucial to consider the context of his decline. Under the pressure of coaching changes and a tumultuous environment in New Orleans, his talent may have been stifled. The Commanders are betting that a change of scenery will reignite his competitive spirit and enhance their defensive unit. Saints' Grade: B On the flip side, the Saints made a savvy move by acquiring valuable draft capital. With a third-, fourth-, and sixth-round pick in 2025, they have positioned themselves for flexibility in the upcoming draft, allowing them to potentially trade up or address multiple needs. While losing a player of Lattimore's talent is a blow, the Saints are clearly in a rebuilding phase, and this trade reflects a prioritization of future assets over immediate performance. However, it’s worth noting that the Saints could have explored other trade options to maximize their return on a player of Lattimore's caliber, especially considering their recent struggles. This trade is a step in the right direction, but it raises questions about whether they could have extracted even more value.