Mike Sainristil enjoyed a phenomenal rookie campaign for the Washington Commanders in 2024. He's also found time to help a high-profile old college teammate prepare for the next level.
The Commanders couldn't hide their delight when Sainristil slipped through the cracks and into their laps at No. 50 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. They thought extremely highly of the cornerback, who was undersized but possessed the heart of a lion between the white lines. General manager Adam Peters was instantly vindicated.
Sainristil put together an outstanding season. The Commanders took a big risk by switching him from the slot to the boundary when the likes of Benjamin St-Juste, Michael Davis, and Emmanuel Forbes Jr. struggled. It paid off handsomely with a smooth transition.
The former Michigan standout never backed down from a challenge. Sainristil went up against some of the league's best and more than held his own. Once four-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore gets fully healthy this offseason, it's got the making of a highly productive tandem.
Will Johnson drawing inspiration from Commanders CB Mike Sainristil
Big things are in Sainristil's future. He's also done plenty to aid Will Johnson, who's expected to be a high-end selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
They were teammates with the Wolverines, winning a college football national championship together. The incoming prospect wasn't shocked about Sainristil's instant impact in the pros. Johnson also revealed how the former slot specialist has helped him from a work ethic and leadership standpoint.
"That's my guy. I mean, he's taught me a lot of things. Just how to carry myself, how to work on and off the field. He's always been a pro. He's just a great leader, great man. He's doing great things on the field. I'm not surprised at all."Will Johnson via Commanders.com
Johnson is projected to be a top-10 selection despite not working out at the NFL Scouting Combine. That makes him out of reach for the Commanders, who are picking much further down the pecking order than fans are used to following their memorable run to the NFC Championship game.
If Johnson goes on to achieve half of what Sainristil managed as a rookie, whoever gets him will have a significant asset on their hands. There's no doubt Washington got a steal. The cornerback room needs a few tweaks in pursuit of keeping pace with the Philadelphia Eagles, but the Everette High School product looks like a franchise cornerstone piece to build around long-term.
Johnson's comments are a testament to Sainristil's character and the way he goes about his business. He was a strong leadership presence at Michigan — someone others looked to as a role model for inspiration. This elite-level mindset gave him the "Commander Standard" during Peters' comprehensive assessments. It also allowed him to hit the ground running at the game's pinnacle.
Sainristil's become an example to follow. There is no greater compliment anyone could pay. And the best part? This is just the start for an immensely gifted defensive back.