The Washington Commanders’ defense has set the tone early in training camp, and Amik Robertson sounds like a player who has no problem leaning into that edge.
Through the first couple of days of practice, the defense has come out on top both times, and Thursday brought another clear example. Terry McLaurin even acknowledged that the offense got beat, which led to Robertson weighing in on the back-and-forth that’s already showing up on the field.
This is Robertson’s first camp with Washington, and he’s clearly enjoying the competitiveness around him.
"Guys like that (the offense) are going to respond," Robertson said. "So, Terry and Jayden may be laughing now, but they're going to be back tomorrow. That's why the defense has to stay on it, man."
That kind of exchange fits right into the tone Dan Quinn has been pushing. Robertson said the team is living that message every day.
"Dan Quinn always preaches 'competitive, bad mother*******," Robertson explained. "So some days offense is going to win, some days defense is going to win. But we all win, because we elevate one another."
Robertson and McLaurin have already had some friendly trash talk, and the chemistry across the roster appears to be strong. McLaurin’s experience also makes it clear this isn’t a receiver who’s going to back down in camp.
The early signs are encouraging for Washington, especially with Robertson adjusting to Daronte Jones’ new scheme without any obvious issues.
Robertson is expected to open the season as the starting nickel corner in his first year with the Commanders after spending the previous two seasons with the Detroit Lions. In 2025, he played all 17 games and finished with 52 tackles, 12 pass breakups and one interception, production that helped him land a two-year, $15 million deal this offseason.
Washington is hoping that Robertson can lock down the nickel spot after Mike Sainristil struggled there a year ago.
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