Washington Commanders have taken a decisive step toward fixing one of their biggest weaknesses from the 2025 NFL season, adding experienced cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon to reinforce their defense. After finishing with a disappointing 5-12 record, the franchise has made it clear that improving defensive depth is a top priority heading into the new campaign.
Washington Commanders address defensive concerns
Washington struggled across multiple defensive areas last season, particularly in the secondary. The addition of Witherspoon signals a focused effort to bring stability and competition to a unit that lacked consistency.
“The Commanders are signing veteran CB Akhello Witherspoon following his visit to the team today, sources say,” NFL Network’s Mike Garofolo wrote on his official X account. “After three seasons with the Rams, Witherspoon heads to Washington Commanders, rejoining GM Adam Peters, who was with the 49ers when the team drafted Witherspoon.”
The reunion with general manager Adam Peters could prove significant, given their shared history dating back to Witherspoon’s early NFL days.
Experience and competition in the secondary
While initially viewed as a depth addition, Witherspoon brings a level of experience that could quickly elevate his role within the team. Over the past three seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, he has demonstrated reliability and playmaking ability in key situations.
“Sources: The Commanders are signing veteran CB Ahkello Witherspoon,” NFL insider Jordan Schultz wrote on his official X account. “He started 24 games over the last 3 years with the Rams and had 5 interceptions … The Commanders bolster their secondary.”
His track record suggests he will not merely serve as a backup option but could push for a starting position as training camp approaches.
A proven profile with upside
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 215 pounds, Witherspoon offers the physical tools teams look for in a modern NFL cornerback. Originally selected in the third round (66th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, he has steadily built a respectable career.
One of his most productive seasons came in 2023, when he recorded a career-high 17 starts, showcasing durability and consistency. By the end of the 2025 season, he had accumulated approximately $18 million in career earnings, underlining his value as a dependable defensive asset.
For Washington Commanders, this signing represents more than just adding depth — it reflects a broader strategy to rebuild a defense that faltered last season. Witherspoon’s experience, familiarity with the front office, and ability to compete for a starting role make him a potentially impactful addition.