The Washington Commanders are turning heads in the NFL with their 3-1 start and record-setting offense, but as they prepare for their Week 5 clash against the Cleveland Browns, there’s a looming issue on defense—specifically at cornerback. While the offense has been lighting up scoreboards, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder identified the Commanders’ cornerback position as a weak link. His suggestion? Signing veteran free agent Tre Herndon, who could provide stability to a secondary that has struggled through the first month of the season.
Holder points out that while Washington’s young cornerbacks show promise, they could use the experience and versatility that Herndon brings. “There aren’t any game-changing options available at this stage, but Herndon could be a solid pickup,” Holder wrote, referencing Herndon’s 73.1 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus last season. Herndon, a former Jacksonville Jaguar, is known for his ability to play both the slot and boundary, making him a flexible option off the bench.
Tre Herndon’s Journey to the NFL
Herndon, undrafted out of Vanderbilt in 2018, has carved out a solid NFL career. Despite going undrafted, he made the Jaguars’ 53-man roster and went on to become a full-time starter in his second and third seasons, recording a career-high three interceptions in 2019 and 62 tackles in 2020. Over six seasons with Jacksonville, Herndon played 83 games with 34 starts. His most recent stint was with the New York Giants, signing a one-year contract in June 2024, though he was released before the season began.
Tre Herndon 4th down interception AND FUMBLE DAMMIT! pic.twitter.com/oJqMrnMsYQ
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) August 9, 2024
A Struggling Commanders’ Secondary
The Commanders’ secondary has been a weak point, giving up more passing touchdowns (10) than any other team in the league through four games. Additionally, Washington has yet to record an interception and ranks last in the NFL in opponents’ quarterback ratings (123.3). The absence of 2023 first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes Jr., who has been out since Week 1 with a thumb injury, has been another blow.
Benjamin St.-Juste has held down one cornerback spot, while rookie Mike Sainristil has taken over on the other side. Sainristil, who was a standout at Michigan, was selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He’s shown flashes of playmaking ability, including six interceptions in his final college season, but as with most rookies, there’s room for growth.
Could Tre Herndon Be the Answer?
With the Commanders facing high-powered offenses in the coming weeks, adding a veteran like Herndon could be a smart move. While he may not be a game-changer, his experience and versatility could help shore up a position that’s clearly in need of help. As Washington looks to maintain its early-season momentum, strengthening its secondary will be key to sustaining success as the season progresses.
