Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
It's not easy to figure out Mike Sainristil this season. The Washington Commanders were expecting big things from the cornerback after they moved him back to the nickel position, where he starred in college at Michigan. Even though that hasn't gone according to plan, he's got something that most across the secondary don't possess.
That is the ability to turn opportunities into turnovers. Sainristil has eight interceptions since being taken No. 50 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Only one player from that class has more, which is something to build upon if nothing else.
There are flaws associated with Sainristil. He's given up too many explosive plays, and coverage has been hesitant on occasion. The positives and negatives are in equal supply from his NFL sophomore efforts, so this is all about finding where he is best suited and how the Commanders can maximize his skill set.
Easier said than done, but head coach Dan Quinn is qualified to do just that. There is uncertainty about the plans for the defensive coordinator position moving forward, but Sainristil remains a massive part of the team's plans, no matter who comes into the fold.
The spark and talent are there. Becoming more consistent is crucial.
Laremy Tunsil - Commanders OT
The Commanders recognized they had finally found their answer at the quarterback position after Jayden Daniels' phenomenal rookie season. Adam Peters needed to protect this investment, and he kicked this off by making a daring trade for prolific left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
Nobody needs to be reminded of Tunsil's credentials. There are few better around the league at keeping the blindside free of pressure. He's a five-time Pro Bowler and a highly consistent performer. The Commanders had to pay a premium to secure his services, but he's been worth all that and more during his first season with the franchise.
Tunsil has been a revelation. His pass protection is nothing short of extraordinary. His run blocking is dominant, with opposing edge defenders finding life extremely tough when the Ole Miss product generates early leverage. He's also emerging as a leader, mentoring rookie Josh Conerly Jr. through his rollercoaster rookie season with supreme success.
This is the franchise left tackle Washington has craved since Trent Williams was traded to the San Francisco 49ers. Tunsil will be after a massive contract extension this offseason, which could go to $30 million per year or beyond. Peters would be wise to pay up accordingly to keep this cornerstone piece around for the remainder of his career.