2 winners (and 5 losers) from Commanders' pathetic surrender against the Eagles

This was another evening to forget.
Washington Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil
Washington Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil | Kevin Sabitus/GettyImages
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Loser No. 4

Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE

Fans were expecting to see a lot more of Ben Sinnott as a focal point offensively with Pro Bowl tight end Zach Ertz out for the season with a torn ACL. His huge play late in last weekend's win over the New York Giants only raised encouragement about what he could accomplish from a starting role.

That was a step forward for Sinnott. Unfortunately, the 2024 second-round pick took a step back against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Sinnott got two targets, bringing in one for five receiving yards. The former Kansas State standout found it much more difficult from a blocking perspective against the Eagles' defensive front seven. He wasn't the only player who failed to meet expectations, but if he wants to cement his status as the top tight end next season, much more is required down the stretch.

The No. 53 pick last year has got two games left to prove he's capable of having significant responsibilities on his shoulders. But the jury is still well and truly out on that.

Winner No. 2

Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB

It was honestly difficult to pick out anyone aside from Bobby Wagner as a standout for the Commanders in Week 16. There were a few flashes from those who've been on the fringes this season, but it was another subpar effort that left far more questions than answers.

Although his performance was far from perfect once again, Mike Sainristil was at least trying to make things happen. The feisty cornerback got things rolling in the best possible way with a forced fumble on the game's opening kickoff. He's been the only constant source of turnovers this season, which is a damnining indictment of how things have unfolded for Dan Quinn's defense in 2025.

Sainristil has some coverage issues, but he held his own more often than not. He came up with an impressive pass breakup and was never found wanting for effort. It wasn't easy to keep spirits high, so the fact that he kept driving himself and his teammates forward was a positive.

Loser No. 5

Quan Martin - Commanders S

Quan Martin had progressed effectively in recent weeks. However, the safety's glaring flaws were exposed almost constantly by the Philadelphia Eagles during another dismal evening at the office.

Martin was expected to be a legitimate breakout star for the Commanders this season. The defensive back has regressed in almost every area and has failed to find the consistency needed when it mattered.

These flaws were evident throughout Washington's loss to the Eagles. Nick Sirianni's squad knew precisely how to attack the 2023 second-round pick. They knew he was flawed against the run and struggled to wrap up oncoming runners. And just like defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, his frustrations got the better of him late with an ejection after punches were thrown.

What the future holds for Martin beyond this season is anyone's guess. He's got one more year of his rookie deal. He could stick around in some capacity, but it wouldn't be shocking to see Adam Peters hit the reset button on the defensive back end.

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