Noah Igbinoghene is back to round off a decent-looking cornerback room.
Adam Peters placed a high value on keeping those around who made lasting contributions in 2024. With this year’s free agency class not exactly brimming with talent, the Washington Commanders are running it back with most in the hope of further progress next season.
The Commanders’ latest re-signing was more popular than most — something that provides Washington with a potentially prolific cornerback foursome for good measure.
Noah Igbinoghene came to the fore in 2024 when given an opportunity. The failings of others in the cornerback room forced Washington’s defensive staff into a change of pace. It was a big gamble, but the rewards were evident.
Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. deserve praise for pivoting. They switched rookie slot specialist Mike Sainristil to the outside, moving Igbinoghene to the nickel role. The improvements were immediate and the former first-round pick deservedly received another commitment from the franchise.
Noah Igbinoghene extension provides extra security in Commanders cornerback room
Igbinoghene hadn’t met the expectations of a first-round pick before landing in Washington. Quinn thought there was something more to give after working with him on the Dallas Cowboys in 2023. It took a little time and it wasn’t perfect by any stretch, but there were far more good moments than bad.
The Commanders now have four relatively decent cornerback options at their disposal. Four-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore leads the way and should bounce back with a full offseason to prepare and get healthy. Sainristil looked like a superstar in Year 1 of his professional career and should flourish further. Washington also secured Jonathan Jones in free agency following his prolific stint with the New England Patriots.
With Igbinoghene also on board for another season at least, it’s a solid quartet. It shouldn’t stop Peters from acquiring another cornerback via the 2025 NFL Draft, but the need is less urgent. That is good news considering the Commanders only have five selections as things stand.
It’s been a modest free agency aside from the bombshell trade to acquire left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Igbinoghene’s extension is the latest example of the trust attached to players who rose to the big occasion last season.
This one is different. Unlike some 30-somethings without much good football left, Igbinoghene could be only just scratching the surface of what he’s capable of.
He’s just turned 25 years old entering his prime. His confidence will be high after accumulating significant reps last season and playing well. There’s a good chance the Auburn product can build on this if complacency doesn’t become an issue.
If Igbinoghene can continue to learn, grow, and benefit from having some outstanding options around him, it would be surprising if he didn’t take another leap forward next season. If that comes to fruition, another longer-term commitment might be coming his way in Washington or elsewhere this time next year.
•
Leave a Reply