Lions' Amik Robertson agrees to 2-year deal with Washington Commanders

Cornerback leaves Detroit after playing 35 games over past two seasons

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Amik Robertson, one of the Detroit Lions' top free agents, agreed to a two-year, $16 million deal with the Washington Commanders shortly after the start of the 2026 NFL free agency negotiating period. Robertson, who started 10 games for the Lions last season, has experience at both the slot and outside cornerback positions.

Why it matters

Robertson's departure is a blow to the Lions' secondary, which enters the new league year with off-field and injury concerns. The Lions finished 20th in the NFL against the pass last season and will need to address their defensive backfield in free agency and the draft.

The details

Robertson, 27, played as the Lions' primary slot corner in 2024 but moved outside late in the season after Carlton Davis broke his jaw. Last year, Robertson forced two fumbles and had one interception while again playing both positions. However, he allowed a career-high eight touchdown passes and had a passer rating against of 116.5.

  • Robertson agreed to the deal shortly after the start of the 2026 NFL free agency negotiating period on March 9.

The players

Amik Robertson

A cornerback who was one of the Detroit Lions' top free agents.

Washington Commanders

An NFL team that signed Robertson to a two-year, $16 million deal.

Terrion Arnold

A third-year cornerback for the Lions who is being investigated by Florida police for his connection to a kidnapping and robbery plot.

Brian Branch

A Lions safety returning from a season-ending Achilles tendon injury.

Kerby Joseph

A Lions safety whose long-term future is in doubt due to a knee injury.

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What they’re saying

“It's no finger pointing. It starts with me and how can I improve and I think when not only the players but the staff see that, it's like an all-in thing. Let's find solutions. Now, we have the chart and we understand, this could have been coached better, this is poor execution, this is gross awareness of the situation, and this player just got beat on this play. And let's take the band-aid off, let's talk about it and then let's get that solution so we can line up next season and make sure it doesn't happen again.”

— Kelvin Sheppard, Lions defensive coordinator (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Terrion Arnold out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on Detroit streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.