NFL Rumors: Chargers are a trade finalist for Pro-Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore

Update: Marshon Lattimore was traded to the Washington Commanders after publication of this article.

LA Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz has not been shy about making moves to improve the team's roster. Whether it be with the two trades he made at the start of the 2024 season or the various free-agent signings around the fringes, Hortiz has made the most out of this Chargers roster.

Hortiz is looking to do the same at the 2024 NFL trade deadline and may do so with a big name. After weeks of trade speculation around lesser-known players, the Chargers have officially been linked to four-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore.

The Chargers were one of four teams mentioned as being in the market for the Saints cornerback by NFL insider Adam Schefter. The known teams joining the Chargers in the market are the Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Commanders.

NFL Rumors: Chargers officially in the market for Marshon Lattimore

Schefter went on to specify that he would be surprised if the Saints didn't trade Lattimore before the trade deadline passes. There has been too much smoke around a potential trade for there not to be any fire.

"I don't think you go down this road, at this point, and then not get something done," Schefter said about a potential Lattimore trade. "If they are this far advanced in talks with this many people and there is this much interest, usually, the teams move ahead and act."

The 28-year-old corner wouldn't just be a savvy addition for this year's defense but he would become a staple cornerback for the Chargers to build around in the future. Lattimore is under contract for three more seasons. If things do go sideways, Lattimore can be released from his contract before the 2026 season and save his team cap space.

The defensive side of the ball has been an area of strength for the Chargers but the secondary has been riddled with injuries. Adding Lattimore would allow the Chargers to combat these injuries while also leaning into any area of strength.

With Kristian Fulton and Asante Samuel Jr. both free agents after this season, adding someone who could pilot the secondary in the coming years would be huge for the Bolts. This answers a big offseason question before the 2024 season even ends, and only increases the Chargers' chances of making a playoff run ths season.

The Chargers had the chance to draft Lattimore back in 2017 but opted to take Mike Williams instead. Now, seven years later, it could come full circle with the Chargers trading for Lattimore instead of Williams.