Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
Mike Sainristil looked like a franchise cornerstone in the making after his first season. The undersized cornerback made a lasting contribution, coming up with big plays aplenty to soar his stock.
Now, things are less clear. The former Michigan standout secured several takeaways, but he also gave up a lot of big plays. He went from an assured presence in coverage to a feast-or-famine player, and even though the supporting cast around him wasn't great, fans were expecting more.
With Daronte Jones taking over the defense, Sainristil's discipline must improve. The Commanders will once again give him significant duties, regardless of whether they draft another corner or not. He's got the versatility and aggression to excel within a new scheme, but enhancing consistency is crucial.
- Grade after Year 1: A+
- Grade after Year 2: B
It's a big year for Sainristil. The margin for error has diminished, but the Commanders remain confident that he can display the correct growth.
Johnny Newton - Commanders DL
The Commanders thought they had a bona fide steal when Johnny Newton slipped through the cracks and into their laps at No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Medical red flags were the reason he wasn't taken in the first round, which have come up almost constantly throughout his two years in Washington.
That's not the only problem with Newton. He can be impactful as a situational pass-rusher from the defensive line interior, but the Illinois product is a complete liability against the run. That's restricted his involvement considerably, so it'll be interesting to see if anything changes when Daronte Jones switches his scheme to a 3-4 base front.
With Tim Settle Jr. joining Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne, a rotational role may be in Newton's future once again. However, head coach Dan Quinn named him specifically as someone who could take a major leap in 2026.
- Grade after Year 1: A
- Grade after Year 2: B
Newton must repay this ongoing faith. And it could legitimately go either way.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels' rookie campaign was historic. The quarterback took the league by storm immediately, spearheading the Commanders into playoff contention through a unique blend of poise, accuracy, and dynamism that Washington hadn't possessed under center for some time.
Daniels' second campaign didn't go nearly as well. The former LSU phenom played just seven games, finishing four. A series of frustrating injuries held him back. Despite trying to come back from a dislocated elbow, the Commanders rightfully shut him down to protect their prized possession.
This brought the inevitable questions about Daniels' durability. Caleb Williams and Bo Nix made the playoffs. Drake Maye reached the Super Bowl. There are suddenly new concerns around Washington's man under center, and he must alleviate them.
- Grade after Year 1: A+
- Grade after Year 2: A
If Daniels can stay healthy and the Commanders enhance his supporting cast, the trajectory will be pointing up once again. Anything less, and Washington has a big problem.
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