Much has been made about the Washington Commanders' lack of notable additions across the secondary this offseason. It was a strange route to take, but general manager Adam Peters thought strengthening the front seven could have a much bigger impact on the team's overall defensive fortunes.
It also highlighted the confidence in those around. Very few managed to cover themselves in glory last season. Most either got hurt or underperformed, and the Commanders' disintegrated against almost anyone. But those in power are not ready to give up on their investments.
And for one team analyst, that also includes the cornerback tandem of Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil.
Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil have to deliver for the Commanders in 2026
Kevin Sheehan of 106.7 The Fan highlighted how some respected former Commanders believe that Amos is the real deal. He's also willing to give Sainristil the benefit of the doubt, so it'll be interesting to see how this tandem fares with an improved front seven in front of them.
"If Trey Amos is what Shawn Springs says he is. Shawn Springs, Fred Smoot, the guys that played the position, they think Trey Amos is the real deal. They know what one looks like. They think he's the real deal. Got injured on a bad, bad defense last year. Let's see what guys like him and [Mike] Sainristil look like with a better front seven and a better pass rush."
Amos looked the part last season before a serious leg injury ended his campaign way ahead of time. He's got the size, length, and aggression that should fit well into coordinator Daronte Jones' schematic concepts. His ability in run support should also help, and the Ole Miss product is only going to improve with another offseason to hone his craft.
Sainristil is a more curious case.
Commanders fans are still debating whether it is best suited to the boundary or the slot. Flip-flopping hasn't done Sainristil's continuity any favors, with the takeaways last season overshadowed by the number of explosive plays conceded. And entering Year 3, some middle ground must be reached.
The Commanders' moves during the offseason suggest that they are moving forward with Amos and Sainristil as their starting tandem, potentially on the outside. Amik Robertson has experience and inside-out versatility. Ahkello Witherspoon will be an asset if he can stay healthy. Antonio Hamilton Sr. is also back after emerging as a special-teams force last season.
Some fans and experts don't believe this will be enough. But with Amos and Sainristil, it's evident that the Commanders want to find out for sure.
Let's hope both can deliver on their obvious promise.
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