5 Commanders on the hot seat entering Week 12 vs. the Cowboys

Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB

Mike Sainristil is coming of age after some expected early rookie jitters. The second-round selection looks like a core foundational piece for the Washington Commanders long-term. There weren't many bright spots at the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 11. He was one of them.

Sainristil took on the mantle of guarding physically imposing wide receiver A.J. Brown with his customary determination and high-class composure. The first-year pro more than held his own whoever he was up against. This was the clearest sign yet that the Commanders have a special player on their hands where the former Michigan star is concerned.

Considering the inconsistencies of Benjamin St-Juste and others in the cornerback room, Sanristil could be tasked with restricting Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb this weekend. It will be another stern test of his credentials - one he is sure to embrace fully in the face of All-Pro caliber opposition.

It doesn't look like Marshon Lattimore will feature due to his lingering hamstring issue. That puts even more pressure on Sainristil to produce the goods and ensure Washington's defense takes another leap forward versus divisional opposition.

Noah Brown - Commanders WR

The Commanders are patiently waiting for someone to step up and become a legitimate No. 2 receiving option alongside Pro Bowl pass-catcher Terry McLaurin. Noah Brown might still be that guy, but things have tailed off over the last fortnight.

Brown accumulated just four receptions from 11 targets for 37 receiving yards versus the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles. He's still causing his customary defensive pass interference penalties, which is something. But the Commanders need more from the former seventh-round selection if they want to mix it with the NFL's elite when the playoffs begin.

Washington has stood pat at the wideout spot all season despite reportedly looking to acquire one via trade before the deadline. Nothing materialized, so the onus is on Brown to make the improvements needed to keep this sensational story going.

The Ohio State product won't be lacking motivation in this one. Brown spent the first five seasons in Dallas without firmly establishing himself. This is another chance to prove them wrong and cement himself as part of Washington's long-term plans along the way.