March 10, 2026, 12:50 a.m. ET
The Washington Commanders agreed to terms with a cornerback on the first day of the NFL’s legal negotiating period. But it probably wasn’t the cornerback you expected. The first free agent to agree to terms with the Commanders was former Lions cornerback Amik Robertson.
A 5-foot-9, 183-pound corner who began his NFL career with the Las Vegas Raiders, Robertson can play outside cornerback or in the slot. Many believe he’ll play the slot in Washington, allowing Mike Sainristil to play outside. Originally drafted to play the slot, Sainristil has performed better outside and is coming off a year in which he struggled.
Despite being linked to the top cornerback names on the market, such as Alontae Taylor, Jamel Dean, Tyriq Woolen and others, Washington chose Robertson.
Why?
In a year where there were no sure things, only potential, Washington chose to go with a player who is versatile, competitive, feisty, physical and isn’t afraid to mix it up with the NFL’s best receivers, including Justin Jefferson. Robertson has enjoyed success against Jefferson, something most cornerbacks can’t say.
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Here he is matched up one-on-one with Ja’Marr Chase and its Robertson who wins the battle, coming away with the interception.
On the following play, watch Robertson’s physicality here. Is that something we’ve seen from any Washington cornerback in recent seasons?
What Robertson makes up for in size, he clearly makes up for in other areas. While it looks as if he’ll play in the slot for Washington, he’s proven time and again that he can also play outside.
Here’s more from Robertson:
Don’t be surprised if Robertson doesn’t quickly become a fan favorite in Washington.