The Cincinnati Bengals did not make a major move at the trade deadline, despite concerns about their defensive depth. With the team preparing for the second half of the season, former four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore could be a potential addition. He is currently a free agent and has earned nearly $105 million over his 10-year NFL career.
Lattimore was selected 11th overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 2017 NFL Draft. He won Defensive Rookie of the Year and earned four Pro Bowl selections in his first five seasons. Injuries later limited his availability: he started seven games in 2022, 10 in 2023 and nine in 2024 before being traded by the Saints after Week 7.
After joining the Washington Commanders in 2024, Lattimore appeared in two games that season and played nine games in 2025. Washington released him following concerns about his health and declining performance. He has not signed with another team since.
## Bengals Have a Need in the Secondary
The Bengals have struggled to settle on a dependable third cornerback. Dax Hill can play in the slot or outside, while DJ Turner is a key option on the outside. But when Hill moves inside, the team has a gap outside; when he plays outside, the slot becomes a concern.
Cincinnati has also tried Jalen Davis and Josh Newton in the slot, along with DJ Ivey on the outside. The players have been rotated through different roles, but the team has yet to find a consistent solution.
Lattimore could add experience and depth. If Hill plays in the slot, Lattimore could compete for a role outside. If Hill stays outside, Lattimore could provide another option in the secondary. The Bengals face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11, a matchup that could have implications for the division.
