In an emotional farewell following his trade to the Washington Commanders, former New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore has left a heartfelt message for Saints owner Gayle Benson, the entire organization, and the passionate fanbase in New Orleans. The trade that sent Lattimore to Washington, along with a 2025 fifth-round pick, has been one of the most talked-about moves of the NFL offseason. Now, Lattimore is taking a moment to reflect on his time in New Orleans and express his gratitude to the city and its loyal supporters.

In a statement released on his social media platforms and through the Commanders’ official channels, Lattimore opened up about his journey with the Saints, the relationships he built, and his deep love for New Orleans.

Lattimore’s Message to Gayle Benson and the Saints Organization

“I want to start by thanking Ms. Gayle Benson and the entire New Orleans Saints organization for believing in me and allowing me to wear the black and gold for all these years,” Lattimore wrote. “From the moment I was drafted by the Saints in 2017, I was welcomed with open arms into the city of New Orleans and into this incredible football family. The city and its people became a part of me, and I will forever carry that love and respect with me as I move forward in my career.”

Lattimore’s words come at a time when the trade of such a key player has left many fans and teammates surprised and emotional. Lattimore was seen as the cornerstone of the Saints’ secondary, a lockdown corner whose presence on the field defined the defensive identity of the team for years. His Pro Bowl seasons, his ability to shut down top-tier wide receivers, and his passionate play have made him a fan favorite in New Orleans.

Reflecting on his time with the Saints, Lattimore continued, “Every year, every game, every practice, I gave everything I had for the people of New Orleans. You embraced me as one of your own, and for that, I am forever grateful. Whether it was in the Dome or on the road, your support and energy pushed me to be better every day. I will never forget those moments and the bond we shared.”

Lattimore’s Connection to the City of New Orleans

Lattimore’s connection to New Orleans went beyond the football field. The 27-year-old cornerback was a beloved figure in the community, engaging with fans and regularly participating in charitable efforts. Known for his humility and down-to-earth personality, Lattimore quickly became a fan favorite and a role model for many young players in the city. His impact was not just in terms of his performance on the field, but also in the way he represented the values of the New Orleans community.

“New Orleans is a special place,” Lattimore said. “It’s a city full of soul, resilience, and heart. I got to see that up close every single day. From the food to the culture to the music, there’s no place like it. I’m proud to have been a part of the Saints’ legacy and to have contributed to this city’s greatness.”

Lattimore was not only known for his on-field excellence but also for his positive influence in the community. His involvement in youth programs, his charity work, and his efforts to inspire the next generation of athletes made him a fixture in New Orleans beyond the football field. His message to the community highlighted the deep connection he felt with the people he called home for the better part of his NFL career.

“To the fans, I want to say thank you for all your love and support. You made me feel like family from the very first day I stepped on that field,” Lattimore said. “I will always carry a piece of New Orleans with me, and no matter where I go, I’ll always be a part of this city.”

The Saints’ Legacy: Lattimore’s Contribution to the Defense

Lattimore’s contributions to the Saints defense were undeniable. Drafted with the 11th overall pick in 2017, Lattimore quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks. He earned Pro Bowl honors in his rookie season and continued to make a name for himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the league, locking down top receivers and creating turnovers for the Saints’ defense. His elite coverage skills helped the Saints’ defense become one of the most feared units in the NFL, especially in a division filled with top-tier wide receivers.

Lattimore’s presence allowed the Saints to operate a defense that was capable of stopping high-powered offenses, and his ability to change the course of a game with a timely interception or a critical pass breakup was one of the defining aspects of the team’s success. In New Orleans, Lattimore was often the face of the secondary, a player other teams had to game-plan around.

Looking back on his tenure with the Saints, Lattimore said, “It was an honor to play alongside some of the greatest teammates I’ve ever had. From my fellow DBs to the entire defense, we built something special in New Orleans. We fought for each other, and we fought for this city. I will always be proud of what we accomplished together, and I know the Saints will continue to be a contender for years to come.”

Moving Forward: Lattimore’s Future with the Commanders

While the trade marks the end of Lattimore’s time in New Orleans, it also represents the beginning of a new chapter in his career with the Washington Commanders. Lattimore will now bring his skills to Washington, where the Commanders have been building a strong defensive unit. The acquisition of Lattimore fills a major need for the Commanders, who have been searching for a true shutdown corner to pair with their defensive line, led by former No. 2 overall pick Chase Young.

For Lattimore, the move to Washington offers a fresh challenge in a new city, but his roots in New Orleans will always be part of who he is. In his message, Lattimore expressed his excitement for the next chapter of his career while acknowledging the difficult nature of leaving behind the city and fans that supported him for so long.

“While I’m excited about what lies ahead with the Commanders, I want everyone in New Orleans to know that I’ll always have love for you,” Lattimore said. “Thank you, New Orleans, for everything. You will always be a part of me.”

A Lasting Legacy in New Orleans

Marshon Lattimore’s legacy in New Orleans is secure. From his impact on the field to his contributions in the community, Lattimore leaves behind a lasting impression in the Crescent City. The Saints’ decision to trade Lattimore was undoubtedly a tough one, but it signals the beginning of a new era for the franchise, with an eye toward future success.

For the Washington Commanders, acquiring Lattimore provides an immediate upgrade to their secondary and bolsters a defense that is already one of the more promising units in the NFC. Lattimore will now have the chance to help lead a new team to success, but he will always carry the love and respect of New Orleans with him.

As Lattimore embarks on this new chapter in Washington, the city of New Orleans will continue to honor the contributions of one of their own, remembering Marshon Lattimore not only as a football player but also as someone who gave back to the community and became a beloved figure in the hearts of many.

In the world of the NFL, players come and go, but the relationships and the bonds they form with fans and communities last forever. Marshon Lattimore’s time in New Orleans will always be remembered fondly, and his legacy will continue to shine bright, no matter where his career takes him next.