The Saints have moved on from head coach Dennis Allen, although that decision is not expected to pave the way for a mass sell-off of veterans ahead of today’s trade deadline. One name in particular remains the subject of considerable attention, however. 
Cornerback Marshon Lattimore once again finds himself as a trade target. As the deadline approaches, veteran insider Josina Anderson reports talks are “warming up,” adding that multiple suitors are in play. A high third-round pick could be sufficient in this case, per Nick Underhill of NewOrleansFootball.com. A report from this past weekend named the Chiefs as a suitor for the four-time Pro Bowler.
Kansas City has already added on offense (receiver DeAndre Hopkins) and defense (edge rusher Josh Uche) in advance of the deadline. The defending champions improved to 8-0 last night, so they represent an obvious candidate to make further moves over the coming hours. Kansas City could use a starting-caliber corner with Jaylen Watson unlikely to return this season.
Lattimore’s Saints future has long been a talking point, and in the build-up to the draft teams were aware he was on the market. In the end, New Orleans elected to keep the 28-year-old in the fold (although a trade was contemplated). Having received an option bonus just before the start of the year, Lattimore is only owed 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 who have been involved in cap-related financial adjustments. Lattimore is due base salaries of $16MM and $16.5MM for those years, but none of that compensation is guaranteed. On March 20 of next year (as well as the one after), he is due a $2MM roster bonus, though. That, along with scheduled cap hits of $31.41MM and $28.56MM, make his pact one in need of further alterations in the event a trade were to be worked out.
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 which potential suitors are taking into account. Nevertheless, he could provide effective play in coverage for any number of teams looking for a boost in the secondary. Teams have until 3:00pm central to finalize a trade involving Lattimore or any other players the 2-7 Saints could be willing to part with.
Lions forsure with Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn both came from New Orleans
Feels like any team that goes after Lattimore, will need to restructure his deal. $31M cap hit next year according to Spotrac. That’s horrendous and he’s turning 29 next year.
i think a team like Rams would make a move and sure up that defense. They have all their picks besides a 2nd next year to get it done.
The cap hit won’t be 31 million for the team acquiring him. A lot of that is prorated bonus money that the Saints will have to take against their cap.
I’m sure the next two years’ worth of salary is the sticking point for the Chiefs. They would be on the hook for 18 million each of the next two season and it would make them about even for the cap next year. If they want NO to eat that salary, NO would be asking for a higher pick then a 3rd rounder.
A contender needs to get him. He will make a difference.
$31MIL, just to play football? Is that all?