Things have not gone well for the Washington Commanders this season. Much has been made about the NFL's oldest roster looking exactly that, but younger players with long-term upside have not progressed effectively enough.
That is arguably a much bigger problem. The Commanders weren't counting on many of their veterans beyond 2025. But for draft picks and other investments, their lack of progress is a genuine concern, leaving far more questions than answers.
Washington's demoralizing loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 14 exposed one massive issue. And it's starting to look like the Commanders have a gigantic problem on their hands with second-year cornerback Mike Sainristil.
Commanders need to rethink how best to maximize Mike Sainristil moving forward
The Commanders thought they'd hit the jackpot when Sainristil was there for the taking at No. 50 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. His rookie campaign did nothing to diminish this optimism, especially given how well he navigated a move to the outside. Hopes were high that he could kick on and become a franchise cornerstone piece this season. Unfortunately, that hasn't come to fruition.
Sainristil struggled more often than not. His switch back into the nickel saw him targeted as a weak link with frequent success. He's given up the second-most receptions league-wide, and even three interceptions haven't papered over the cracks.
The former Michigan standout showed brief promise when moved back to the boundary, but Sainristil reverted to type with a dismal outing against the Vikings. They looked in his direction whenever they needed a big play, and it worked. His 5-foot-9 stature became his undoing, with Minnesota's bigger receivers getting whatever they wanted.
Washington has a big decision to make with Sainristil this offseason. He'll still be around, but the Commanders need to figure out where he can be most impactful. Trey Amos will occupy one side. Still, with Marshon Lattimore likely done with the franchise, there needs to be a rethink across the board.
At this point, what do you do with Mike Sainristil?
— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) December 7, 2025
He’s had a HORRIBLE season, but do you blame the player or scheme?
Sainristil has the talent. He's going through a sophomore slump, and his 51.7 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 98th out of 111 qualifying cornerbacks. The defensive back needs to bounce back, but he's got the character to do just that if the Commanders work out how best to maximize his skill set.
Most thought moving to the slot was the best thing. Now, opinions have swayed to being an outside option. The truth lies somewhere in the middle, so maybe he should be a versatile chess piece capable of playing anywhere depending on the specific matchup.
Time will tell. But make no mistake, next season will be a crossroads one for Sainristil regarding his long-term aspirations in Washington.