Loser No. 2
Quan Martin - Commanders DB
The Washington Commanders experimented with 2023 second-round pick Quan Martin in the nickel cornerback spot over early offseason workouts. Some believe this is where he's best suited, and this may be the only chance he has to galvanize his career with the club.
While a situation could arise in which the Commanders still use Martin in the slot, they may no longer need him there after signing Rasul Douglas. And that is a big problem.
Douglas has inside-out versatility. He's got proven production in the nickel or the boundary. Mike Sainristil and Amik Robertson are both versatile enough to line up anywhere, depending on the defensive alignment Daronte Jones plans to run. Martin also fits into this bracket, but another dependable veteran presence somewhat clouds his potential role.
This is a nice problem for the Commanders to have. Jones preaches the importance of flexibility, especially with his defensive backs. Having options available that can keep opposing offenses guessing and counteract potential mismatches could be a significant boost. And if the front seven provide the aggression and pressure many anticipate, this group should be much improved during the 2026 campaign.
It'll be interesting to see if Douglas' arrival changes how Martin is deployed. Things should become clear the deeper we get into training camp.
Winner No. 3
Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
The Commanders are once again counting heavily on Mike Sainristil this season. It's been an up-and-down start to his professional career, but the former Michigan standout is expected to improve under the guidance of new coordinator Daronte Jones.
Sainristil is still young. He's still trying to find his way, but he is not a fledgling rookie anymore. The 2024 second-round pick has two years of experience under his belt, and he needs more consistency to take the next step.
Having someone like Rasul Douglas to rely on will only help Sainristil grow. The new arrival also had a turbulent start to his NFL journey with the Philadelphia Eagles before turning things around. This outstanding resolve, coupled with his knowledge of coverages and techniques, can become an asset.
Every little helps. Sainristil wants to be an alpha, and the Commanders drafted him for his off-field habits as much as for his on-field exploits with the Wolverines. He remains a feast-or-famine player, capable of giving up as many big plays as securing turnovers. But if someone with Douglas' high football IQ can help him find a happy medium, it's a win-win for all parties.
Douglas has the tools to make an impact in more ways than one. Helping Washington's young corners evolve will be high on his list of priorities.
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