The Washington Commanders began legal tampering with a modest signing that raised a few eyebrows. But despite the mixed reaction, one Detroit Lions expert highlighted why the arrival of cornerback Amik Robertson could be a better piece of business than fans realize.
According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the Commanders have agreed to terms with Robertson on a two-year, $16 million deal with $9.3 million guaranteed. The cornerback may be on the smaller side, which is concerning, but Washington sees something in him that could be a good fit within Daronte Jones' new defensive system.
The Commanders were desperately short of dependable corner options. Marshon Lattimore was cut as expected. Aside from Mike Sainristil and Trey Amos, nobody from the 2025 squad is guaranteed to return. Versatility and dynamism are needed, which is precisely where Robertson comes in.
Commanders agreeing terms with Amik Robertson could be smarter than fans think
Candace Pedraza of Sidelion Report highlighted Robertson's willingness to play anywhere and his exceptional leadership as reasons why he will be missed in Detroit. If he brings the same to Washington, that's only going to bolster Jones' chances of getting off to a positive start.
"The veteran defender was always down to help out wherever needed from defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, and his leadership was felt throughout an injury-riddled year. Now, Detroit is without one of their best backups in the secondary, and they don't look to be that busy to kick off this year's free agency period."
Not every signing was going to be a bank-breaking statement. As it turned out, Commanders fans didn't have to wait much longer for a splash, with general manager Adam Peters reaching an agreement to acquire edge rusher Odafe Oweh on a four-year, $100 million deal with $68 million guaranteed.
Robertson has limitations, but he's a dependable veteran who performed better than his Pro Football Focus grades suggest in 2025. It's also worth remembering how decimated the Lions were defensively, which didn't make things any easier for the six-year pro out of Louisiana Tech.
The Commanders need, and will no doubt acquire, more for the cornerback room at some stage during the offseason. Moving forward with Amos, Sainristil, and Robertson as the starting trio doesn't seem feasible, so Peters should have other targets in free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft. But getting this move worked out quickly gives Jones a stable, experienced presence who didn't exactly cost the earth to bring into the fold.
And based on Pedraza's assessment, the Commanders are also getting a big presence in the locker room for good measure.