Marshon Lattimore's big trade to the Washington Commanders was a complete disaster. The decision to release him this offseason was obvious, but whether general manager Adam Peters has done enough to strengthen the cornerback unit is another matter.
The Commanders made big splashes elsewhere on the depth chart, especially on the defensive edge. Washington's moves at corner were more understated, with Amik Robertson and Ahkello Witherspoon coming into the ranks.
These aren't needle movers by any stretch of the imagination. Both are solid pros, but both also have questions to answer. Peters will likely acquire another capable corner via the 2026 NFL Draft, and there is also enough cash available to go back into the veteran pool if he wishes.
NFL analyst gives modest outlook for Commanders' free-agent signing Amik Robertson
And in Robertson's case, one NFL analyst doesn't believe the bar for improvement is all that high.
Douglas Fritz of Clutch Points gave the Commanders' signing of Robertson a B- grade. Even so, the analyst didn't think much was required from the defensive back to become an upgrade over Lattimore.
"The Commanders are trying to be the 2025 Seahawks on defense. They don’t need to be because of quarterback Jayden Daniels. They just need to be solid in the secondary. [Amik] Robertson can get there. Maybe.
"Basically, all Robertson has to do is be within the same zip code as the receiver, and he would be an upgrade over [Marshon] Lattimore."
It'll be interesting to see what the Commanders will have planned for Robertson. Asking him to occupy an every-down role is asking for trouble. Maybe using him in the slot with Mike Sainristil and Trey Amos on the outside could be the way to go. But if Washington drafts LSU's shutdown prospect Mansoor Delane, that shakes up the dynamic considerably.
Robertson is respected around the league. He's an experienced player and a vocal leader. Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell loved having him around, which speaks volumes. The former Louisiana Tech star's lack of size can be problematic at times, but he is never found wanting for effort.
Not every signing was going to be a massive splash. Robertson was an underwhelming signing to many, but glue guys like this are important. He's also willing to do whatever it takes to help the team grow. Being unafraid of the dirty work is essential, so it's no wonder that Peters and head coach Dan Quinn became enamored with the defensive back.
Hopefully, he performs well enough to justify this faith.