Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
Mike Sainristil was an undersized cornerback projected to be a slot specialist in the pros. Some analysts questioned whether his lack of legitimate size would be his undoing at the next level. They are eating a large slice of humble pie right now.
The Washington Commanders had a different opinion. They jumped for joy in the draft war room when Sainristil fell into their laps at No. 50 overall. Dan Quinn, in particular, was thrilled to get him into the organization.
Sainristil was projected to be the team's starting nickel cornerback. These plans changed when those on the boundary weren't meeting expectations. The former Michigan star switched to the perimeter and excelled, displaying assured coverage and physical tackling to make the position his own.
The feisty defensive back turned in arguably the best performance of his professional career at the Dallas Cowboys in Week 18. Sainristil is gaining significant momentum at the right time. With four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore on track to return at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, things are looking up in the secondary.
He's already laid down a fantastic foundation from which to build. If Sainristil can raise performance levels in the tighter margins of the postseason, his alpha status will be confirmed.
Sam Cosmi - Commanders OL
This season was an unusual feeling for Sam Cosmi. The formidable offensive lineman experienced almost nothing but misery and underachievement after joining the Commanders as a second-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. All the positivity and locker room enthusiasm required an adjustment period from those who were around previously. He was no exception.
Cosmi got a supreme vote of confidence from general manager Adam Peters before the campaign. The former Texas standout got a four-year, $74 million deal with a little more than $42 million guaranteed. He's repaid this faith with another polished campaign manning the right guard spot.
While the 10 penalties are a little high, Cosmi's production aside from that is pleasing. He's played the second-most snaps league-wide among interior linemen and conceded just one sack. His 74.3 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 22nd out of 135 qualifying guards.
Washington's resurgence has also seen Cosmi find his voice within the locker room. He's not the most comfortable when it comes to public speaking. But when he feels like a rousing speech is needed, he'll step up to the plate.
That's a sign of Cosmi's emerging alpha qualities. Something the Commanders will be counting on more than ever during the team's postseason involvement.