The Houston Texans have strengthened their defensive secondary through free agency and the draft after ranking 23rd in passing yards allowed in the 2023 season. Despite these efforts, Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay suggests that the team should consider acquiring four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick.
Kay argues that the Texans are aiming to maximize their Super Bowl chances while quarterback C.J. Stroud remains on a cost-effective rookie contract. Lattimore, who is 27, has had injury issues over the past two seasons but was highly effective from 2017 to 2021, with consistent pass deflections and interceptions.
However, trading for Lattimore comes with both financial and health risks. He is set to count $14.6 million against the Saints’ 2024 cap, with significant hits in subsequent years. The Texans currently have $23.1 million in cap space for this season, which could accommodate Lattimore’s 2024 salary, but his high contract values could pose a financial strain if he doesn’t perform up to expectations. Additionally, Lattimore’s recent injuries, including an ankle issue in 2023 and a lacerated kidney in 2022, are a concern.
The Texans have already made moves to reinforce their secondary by signing free agent cornerbacks Myles Bryant, Lonnie Johnson Jr., C.J. Henderson, Mike Ford, and Jeff Okudah, and by drafting Kamari Lassiter. If general manager Nick Caserio seeks further upgrades, other options include former Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore, who had a strong season with the Dallas Cowboys, or Xavien Howard, a Houston native and two-time All-Pro cornerback who has expressed interest in playing for the Texans and is open to a pay cut for a chance at a deeper playoff run. Other available cornerbacks include J.C. Jackson, Adoree’ Jackson, and Patrick Peterson.