Quan Martin - Commanders S
The Washington Commanders' secondary could become a real strength if everyone stays healthy in 2025. But for this scenario to become a reality, standout safety Quan Martin must take another leap forward into breakout territory.
Martin brought his game on encouragingly in the second year of his professional career. Moving him to the safety spot where he starred in college was a masterstroke by head coach Dan Quinn. The results were immediate, and his backend partnership with Jeremy Chinn provided a level of dynamism that was sorely lacking.
Chinn is no longer around after the Commanders let him walk in favor of the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency. This propelled Martin into the alpha role, and he'll have a new starting partner after Washington signed Will Harris.
There is an enormous amount at stake for Martin this season. Not many of Ron Rivera's draft picks have made it through their rookie deals. If the defensive back performs as expected, he could get a lucrative new deal well ahead of time next spring.
That is the incentive spurring Martin on. The Commanders want to get the likes of Jeremy Reaves and Tyler Owens more involved in the rotation, but the safety unit will only go as far as the Illinois product takes it.
Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
One could argue that Mike Sainristil broke out as a rookie. But because quarterback Jayden Daniels got the lion's share of headlines, the cornerback's contribution went unnoticed around the league in comparison.
Everyone associated with the Commanders is aware of the pivotal role Sainristil plays in the team's plans. The 2024 second-round pick lived up to his billing and more, providing exceptional production from the nickel role early on before switching to the boundary when others started to underperform.
Many wondered if Sainristil would be able to cope with these responsibilities. The Michigan product excelled, never backing down from a challenge and always getting around the action.
The Commanders have Marshon Lattimore back at full health this offseason, which could be a game-changer. They also moved Trey Amos into the starting outside role, which leaves Sainristil switching back into the slot once again.
This is where his skills are best suited. Sainristil is fast, explosive, and instinctive. He might be a little undersized, but he punches well above his weight on every snap. He's got the scope to be Washington's next great defensive leader, which could happen as soon as this season if the required improvements arrive.
The sky is the limit for Sainristil, who's well on his way to becoming a franchise cornerstone.