Skip to main content

5 emerging tone-setters making their mark at Commanders 2026 OTAs

The right tone is being set across the board.
Washington Commanders offensive lineman Sam Cosmi
Washington Commanders offensive lineman Sam Cosmi | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
3 of 3

Amik Robertson - Commanders CB

The Washington Commanders made some slight tweaks to their cornerback unit this offseason. Several underperforming veterans either left by their own volition or were removed from the equation. But general manager Adam Peters didn't do much to fortify the group either in free agency or the draft.

Antonio Hamilton Sr. got a new one-year deal after impressing on special teams last time out. Ahkello Witherspoon was signed, but he's dealt with significant injury problems throughout his career.

Then, there's Amik Robertson.

Fans were underwhelmed by Robertson's arrival at the start of Washington's legal tampering window. He's not the best athlete, and it's another undersized corner to go alongside Mike Sainristil. However, to say he's left a positive impression on OTAs would be a huge understatement.

Robertson hasn't come to make up the numbers. He wants to make a massive difference, both on and off the field. The 2020 fourth-round pick out of Louisiana Tech has made a point to go up against Terry McLaurin to push himself to the limit. He's also challenging teammates, with Sainristil already highlighting how beneficial his presence has been on the group's overall mindset.

This is a positive start from Robertson. Getting it done when it matters most will be the ultimate litmus test for the veteran.

Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR

Terry McLaurin has always been a tone-setter. But fans didn't get to see a lot of it last season.

He's been a constant source of leadership and consistent production through some dark days for the Commanders. Not getting the chance to build on a rare bright campaign last season was no doubt disappointing, but the wide receiver is eager to make sure the same doesn't happen again in 2026.

McLaurin spent last summer embroiled in a tense contract standoff with the Commanders that went on much longer than fans expected. The former Ohio State standout eventually got his money, but Adam Peters clearly wanted to protect the franchise.

What followed was the first injury-hit season of his career. By the time he felt something close to 100 percent, quarterback Jayden Daniels was out of the lineup.

This stung McLaurin. He's the ultimate competitor, which is why he's connected so well with Daniels. And based on the way he's moving throughout OTAs, the wideout is leading from the front once again.

The 2024 second-team All-Pro is looking sharp and ready to make a significant difference. McLaurin is being pushed out of his comfort zone by offensive coordinator David Blough, and it's bringing out a positive response. He's also demanding more from his teammates through his leadership and motivation, which will only help Washington's cause.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations