The Washington Commanders began their busy free agency with an underwhelming signing. But cornerback Amik Robertson is already having a much bigger impact than some envisaged.
And it's not going unnoticed.
Robertson signed a two-year, $15.02 million contract with the Commanders, which included a $6 million signing bonus and $9 million in guaranteed money. He came highly recommended, with Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell lauding his professionalism and leadership. It's early days, but this is already coming across at OTAs.
Amik Robertson wasted no time in challenging new Commanders teammates
The former Louisiana Tech standout is setting the tone. That's the only way he knows, and for fellow corner Mike Sainristil, it's presenting a challenge that he's already relishing.
“He’s someone who came in and challenged me from the jump. Every day we’re out here doing extra reps after practice. Having someone who is going to help sharpen me, and I’m going to help sharpen him — he’s bringing that challenge to the whole room.
"When you add someone like him to the room, who has that presence and that experience, for us as younger guys, I love learning from people like him. It has been cool to have him as part of our room.”
Robertson heard all the skeptics when he moved to Washington. His social media posts indicated a fierce desire to make people pay for their lack of conviction, which is having a ripple effect across the roster. Sanristil is responding positively, and the new arrival is also reportedly competing hard with wide receiver Terry McLaurin over the opening exchanges of OTAs.
There is an opportunity awaiting Robertson if he can keep this trend going throughout the summer.
General manager Adam Peters didn't do much to fortify the cornerback room this offseason. He kept faith with Sainristil and Trey Amos. Robertson provides versatility and experience. Ahkello Witherspoon may also feature on the rotation if he manages to stay healthy.
Nobody is looking back on last season anymore. Robertson wasn't around for Washington's complete capitulation, but he's leading the charge to turn the tide. He's got high demands of himself and his teammates, and his motivational prowess should ensure complacency doesn't become an issue this time around.
This is the precise character Washington has sought heavily under the current regime. Robertson is undersized, but he's got the heart of a lion and never comes up short on effort. He's ambitious and leaves everything out on the field. Every snap. Every practice. Everything.
And based on Sainristil's comments, teammates are fully buying in.
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