Saints: 4 players who should receive extensions in the near future
By Justin Fried
4. Marshon Lattimore, CB, New Orleans Saints
It’s no secret that Marshon Lattimore has his fair share of baggage that could serve as an obstacle for a long-term extension. His March arrest is likely the biggest hold-up when it comes to the star cornerback receiving a new contract.
The Saints will likely await the outcome of his pending legal situation before deciding to hand over the hefty contract that he likely desires. However, it seems certain that one is coming eventually.
Lattimore was exceptional in his first few seasons quickly looking the part of the 11th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. He was everything the Saints hoped for and more making the Pro Bowl in three of his first four seasons.
However, it’s also evident that his play has slipped over the last two years.
Lattimore finished the 2020 season with a very poor 59.1 Pro Football Focus grade which was easily the worst of his career. While he still made the Pro Bowl (not that that means much), PFF ranked him as the 70th best player at his position out of only 121 qualifiers.
Lattimore legitimately struggled last year (remember Allen Lazard?), but he’s still due for a new contract in the near future.
He’s a 25-year-old cornerback with three Pro Bowls under his belt. Legal issues aside, it’s hard to argue that he doesn’t deserve an extension.
Lattimore is set to play the 2021 season on his fifth-year option, a situation that seems more and more likely by the day with the legal situation still hanging over his head.