NFL trade deadline moves: Washington Commanders land Lattimore, Detroit Lions trade for Za’Darius Smith, Pittsburgh Steelers sign Williams
The Commanders are bolstering their secondary with one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. Lattimore would provide immediate help to a defense that has struggled in pass coverage at times.- **Immediate Needs**: Washington’s secondary has had issues with consistency, especially in coverage against elite receivers. Lattimore’s presence would give the Commanders a true No. 1 cornerback to shut down top wideouts and improve their pass defense.
– **Team Fit**: Lattimore’s ability to match up against elite receivers gives Washington a massive upgrade on defense. His experience in big games and ability to create turnovers fits well with a Commanders defense that has shown flashes of dominance but needs more consistency.
– **Scheme Compatibility**: The Commanders run a 4-3 defense, but Lattimore’s versatility in man and zone coverage makes him an excellent fit in various defensive schemes.
– **Future Impact**: Lattimore is still in his prime and could be a long-term solution for Washington’s secondary. Acquiring him would give the Commanders a stronger defense heading into both the rest of this season and future seasons.
Potential Trade Details:
– Washington could give up a 2nd-round pick and a player (such as a young corner or a depth piece) to the Saints for Lattimore.
– Alternatively, they could package future draft picks (e.g., a 2025 2nd and 2024 3rd) to make the deal attractive for New Orleans.
2. **Detroit Lions Trade for Za’Darius Smith (OLB, Minnesota Vikings)**
Objective:
The Lions are seeking to strengthen their pass rush to make a deep playoff run. Za’Darius Smith would be a perfect complement to Aidan Hutchinson and would give Detroit a more dynamic and dangerous front-seven.
Plan:
– **Immediate Needs**: The Lions have had a solid pass rush but adding another elite pass rusher would make them even more formidable on defense. Smith’s ability to get after the quarterback and disrupt the backfield would alleviate some pressure from Hutchinson and elevate the entire defensive line.
– **Team Fit**: Smith is a strong edge rusher who can win with power or finesse. Pairing him with Hutchinson would give Detroit one of the most dangerous pass-rush duos in the NFL. His experience as a 3-4 OLB can also allow flexibility for the Lions’ defense.
– **Scheme Compatibility**: Detroit’s 4-3 defense would still benefit from Smith’s versatility. He can stand up or put his hand in the dirt, giving coordinator Aaron Glenn more flexibility in designing blitz packages and stunts.
– **Future Impact**: Smith can be a significant piece for Detroit not only this season but also going forward, as his experience and leadership can help elevate the entire defense.
Potential Trade Details:
– Detroit might send a 3rd-round pick and a player (such as a backup defensive end or linebacker) to the Vikings in exchange for Smith.
– The Lions could also include a conditional 2025 pick if Smith hits certain performance benchmarks or plays a set number of games.
3. **Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Williams (CB, Free Agent)**
Objective:
The Steelers are looking to improve their secondary, particularly their cornerback depth. Signing a free-agent cornerback like Williams would help stabilize a position that has shown inconsistency this season.
Plan:
– **Immediate Needs**: Pittsburgh has struggled with cornerback play and could use a proven, reliable veteran to lock down the opposite side of their defense. Williams would provide that experience and help prevent big plays in the passing game.
– **Team Fit**: Williams, a capable veteran who can play both man and zone coverage, would complement Pittsburgh’s strong defensive front. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and his football IQ would help in coverage situations.
– **Scheme Compatibility**: Pittsburgh runs a 3-4 defense with a heavy emphasis on pressure from the front seven, which helps its secondary by forcing quarterbacks to make quick decisions. Williams would thrive in this type of system, where he can react to quick throws and challenge wide receivers at the line of scrimmage.
– **Future Impact**: Signing Williams would bolster the Steelers’ defense for the current season and give them a reliable option for depth and leadership in the secondary.
Potential Signing Details:
– Williams would likely sign a short-term contract, perhaps 1-2 years, with incentives based on performance. The Steelers could offer a deal in the range of $4-5 million per year, with bonus incentives for games played, interceptions, or pass breakups.
Washington Commanders acquire Marshon Lattimore (CB) from the New Orleans Saints. This strengthens their pass defense and provides a long-term solution at cornerback.
– **Detroit Lions** trade for Za’Darius Smith (OLB) from the Minnesota Vikings. This adds a key pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson and strengthens their defense for a playoff push.
– **Pittsburgh Steelers** sign Williams (CB), adding depth and experience to their secondary for the remainder of the season.
These moves reflect teams looking to contend for playoff spots or build for the future, enhancing their respective rosters at key positions.
