Analyst warns Commanders’ fan-favorite on thin ice after bold draft decision
This would be surprising.
The Washington Commanders got a high-value selection when cornerback Trey Amos fell into their laps at No. 61 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Although that will help enormously, one analyst believes it could make an improving defensive back expendable when push comes to shove.
Washington has five decent, starting-caliber cornerbacks heading into the season. Amos’ arrival provides another physical boundary option capable of carving out a role for himself immediately. That might not be good news for everyone, but it’s a small price to pay for progress.
Noah Igbinoghene faces fight for Commanders’ future after Trey Amos pick
Sterling Xie from Pro Football Network placed Noah Igbinoghene’s future firmly under the microscope. The analyst thought he could be on thin ice after the team decided to draft Amos. Given his emergence into a fan-favorite last season with some decent production from the slot, a potential trade if the price is right couldn’t be completely dismissed.
“Veteran cornerback Noah Igbinoghene could get squeezed out of a job. The former Dolphins first-rounder found his footing last year, playing more defensive snaps (774) than he did his first four seasons combined (593). He spent 71% of those snaps in the slot, allowing just 5.6 yards per target in that role. Because of how he performed, it’s no lock Igbinoghene is a goner. Still, it’ll be tough for him to beat out a pair of recent second-round picks, which could leave him as a decent trade asset for Washington. Given his pedigree and promising 2024 performance, Igbinoghene would be a sneaky trade target for teams needing help in the slot.”
Sterling Xie
Igbinoghene became an important part of the team’s defensive plans last season when others began to struggle. He performed well in the slot as Mike Sainristil moved to the outside. But with Amos coming into the fold, last year’s second-round pick might be switched back into the nickel where he’s best suited.
With Jonathan Jones also around, Igbinoghene faces a fight for similar involvement next time around. He’s coming off the best campaign of his professional career, but Adam Peters wasn’t going to settle. Another huge effort is needed when preparations for the new campaign gather pace, and the margin for error remains almost non-existent.
Everyone has a price, of course. Peters might consider moving Igbinoghene if an offer he cannot refuse arrives. However, it seems unlikely at best.
The Commanders are about keeping talent as they look to mount a deep playoff run once again. Igbinoghene may be further down the cornerback pecking order, but that could change quickly if injuries occur or players struggle for form.
That means the benefits of keeping Igbinoghene far outweigh the negatives. For now, at least
