Commanders' complete faith in rookie Mike Sainristil should thrill fans

The Washington Commanders are expecting big things from Mike Sainristil. Their cornerback options needed a fresh injection of energy after everyone aside from veteran Kendal Fuller failed to meet expectations in 2023. That's a lot to ask of a rookie, but those in power don't believe they have the average first-year pro on their hands.

Sainristil was the best player on the best defense in college football last season. The defensive back was an integral piece throughout Michigan's run to the national championship title. Being undersized hurt his stock and will likely limit him to slot duties in the NFL, but that didn't stop the Commanders from picking the gifted prospect at No. 50 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Adam Peters and Dan Quinn badly wanted Sainristil. They'd have taken him sooner had defensive lineman Johnny Newton not fallen into their laps. He received a gold standard tag from the Commanders - one of only 20 prospects to get this distinction during their pre-draft assessments. Nick Saban also believes Washington got its hands on the best pound-for-pound player in this class.

Commanders have complete confidence in rookie Mike Sainristil

Tempering expectations would be wise. First-year cornerbacks tend to go through some growing pains - just ask Emmanuel Forbes Jr. Fortunately for Sainristil, he has Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. steering him on the right path. Something the former Mississippi State standout didn't benefit from in 2023.

Sainristil got another glowing reference from secondary coach Tom Donatell, who believes his old head on young shoulders should serve him well based on comments via John Keim of ESPN. The beat writer also outlined the level of confidence emanating from the building regarding the Everett High School product.

"[Mike] Sainristil has an excellent shot to open as Washington's starting slot corner. At 5-foot-10, 182 pounds he's smaller than most corners [Dan] Quinn has kept on his roster, but coaches like his quickness and toughness inside. Washington liked that Sainristil also played receiver at Michigan and was considered a strong leader. Quinn has said he fell in love with Sainristil after visiting with him during his pro day. That's why, after Washington selected him, Quinn high-fived coaches and front office members. "He's wise beyond his years," said secondary coach Tom Donatell. "I feel like I'm talking to a six-year vet. He comes in prepared; he's asking questions before we're even talking about it.""

- John Keim, ESPN

It's hard to ignore the momentum building around Sainristil. The Commanders will deploy him in the slot, where he's expected to upgrade the coverage, lend his forceful aggression to run support, and also be effective on blitz packages if needed. That's the role he thrived with the Wolverines and represents a recipe for immediate success at the next level.

Another reason why the Commanders became so enamored with Sainristil - and almost every other draft pick - centered on his elite-level mindset. He plays every down like it's his last. The size deficiency provided the player with a huge chip on his shoulder. He was a team captain at Michigan and led by vocal support and fine example. That's the sort of mentality Peters and Quinn are looking to instill across their roster.

There might be times of struggle. Every rookie gets their welcome to the NFL moment and Sainristil will be no different. But if he can maintain his high standards, evolve into a leadership presence, and develop his craft under Washington's accomplished coaching staff, this looks like a draft pick well spent.

Sainristil is a player with immense promise. The NFL is a different beast, but it's a challenge he'll take on with his customary determination and exceptional standards.