Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters is deliberately strengthening his defense. While headline deals like the $100 million contract for Odafe Oweh garner attention, strategic, smaller signings like veteran corner Amik Robertson reveal a layered approach. Critics questioned the move, but Justin Rogers of the Detroit Sports Report offered a counterpoint on 106.7 The Fan, providing context to the Robertson addition.
“Amik Robertson got put in very tough positions last year. The Lions lost the No. 1 cornerback and their No.2 cornerback for long stretches. So, what the Lions were asking him to do was be their starting nickel to cover No. 1 receivers. often traveling with them.”
By trade, Robertson operates out of the slot. He initially began as a wide corner after the Las Vegas Raiders drafted him in 2020. However, over the last two seasons, he mainly played in the slot. In addition, Rogers’ point appears valid. Despite standing five-foot-eight, Robertson didn’t just slide to an outside spot; he followed receivers across the field. Instead of passing them off in zone coverage, Detroit used him in man coverage.
Meanwhile, the numbers did not lie. Robertson allowed eight touchdowns and a 67.3% opposing completion percentage. These numbers stand out due to the high number of touchdowns allowed. Rogers, however, defended Robertson because of the tough competition he faced.
“Even an above-average player, that’s having to cover Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, it’s going to go poorly. I don’t think it’s fair to suggest that Amik Robertson is the 110th-best corner in football. ”
Pro Football Focus graded him No. 110. Meanwhile, Pro Football Sports Network, which takes context and opponents into consideration, ranked Robertson at No. 95 in their cornerback rankings. While these rankings are not stellar, Robertson was playing out of position against elite wideouts.
GettyCommanders nickleback Amik Robertson celebrates a touchdowns as a member of the Detroit Lions.
Robertson Could Provide Box Security
Commanders defensive coordinator Daronte Jones will emphasize subpackages. He will use major elements from his former defense, the Minnesota Vikings. As a base 3-4 proponent, nickel becomes a factor. Now, in the NFC East, where every team wants to throw the ball more often than not, the extra defensive back plays a vital role.
Despite his smaller frame, Robertson will drive down to make tackles in the run game. He shows the agility to slip past blocks and make plays. The Vikings blitzed 48% of the time last season, leading the NFL. Jones already mentioned wanting a quick, aggressive defense. If Robertson can time the snap, he could gain an advantage over larger but slower blockers and bring that aggressiveness to the Commanders.
GettyNew Commanders nickel back Amik Robertson.
Peters Balancing Offseason Additions
With the signing of Oweh and, to a lesser extent, Robertson, Peters continues to build the defense slowly. This pragmatic approach may frustrate fans, but it shows the level-headed strategy the franchise needs. By attacking free agency in waves, the Commanders can wait for prices to drop.
For example, to bolster the front seven, they signed K’Lavon Chaisson. The former first-round pick enjoyed his best season last year with the New England Patriots. He recorded 7.5 sacks and played well in the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks, notching six tackles and one pressure.
The Commanders need impact defenders. So far, the general manager has shown he doesn’t need to spend all the money in one day on superstars.
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