Commanders drafted Mike Sainristil
- Cornerback | Michigan Wolverines
- Round No. 2 | Pick No. 50
The Washington Commanders looked like they might have a superstar on their hands in cornerback Mike Sainristil after his sensational rookie campaign. Just 12 months later, fans are questioning just what sort of long-term role he could have.
Washington's cornerback unit was expected to be a strength. Trey Amos and Marshon Lattimore were the starting pairing on the boundary. The Commanders moved Sainristil into the slot, which is where he starred in college. This was expected to take his game to new heights, but he never looked comfortable back in the nickel.
Sainristil's interceptions masked many frailties that went far beyond the stat sheet. He's not the biggest, and teams began to exploit his lack of physicality. Lattimore and Amos got hurt, and the former Michigan star was forced back to the outside. Things improved slightly, but he was always prone to giving up big plays.
- Regrade after Year 1: A+
- Regrade after Year 2: B+
The Commanders learned to live with Sainristil's feast-or-famine outlook in a lost season. But improvements are needed if he wants to cement his long-term future.
Commanders drafted Johnny Newton
- Defensive Line | Illinois Fighting Illi
- Round No. 2 | Pick No. 36
Johnny Newton was considered a massive draft steal when he slipped out of the first round and into the Commanders' lap at No. 36 overall in 2024. Injuries prevented him from making the desired contribution during the 2024 season. Much more was expected this time around.
It didn't arrive. Newton remained firmly behind the starting defensive tackle tandem of Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne. His involvement was primarily restricted to pass-rushing situations. There is a distinct lack of trust in his ability to stop the run, and it's not hard to see why.
Newton broke out late in the season with a three-sack performance, but that doesn't change the bigger picture. He may be fine with being a pass-rushing specialist as a 3-technique. But much like the situation with Ben Sinnott, the Commanders didn't draft him for that.
- Regrade after Year 1: A
- Regrade after Year 2: C+
The former Illinois game-wrecker needs to figure it out this season. Otherwise, general manager Adam Peters will find someone who can.
Commanders drafted Jayden Daniels
- Quarterback | LSU Tigers
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 2
Jayden Daniels was on the fast track to superstardom after the quarterback put together a rookie season for the ages. Unfortunately, his momentum came screeching to an abrupt halt in 2025.
Daniels had an improved supporting cast. He has two bookend tackles to depend upon, but something was off. The conviction deserted him, and it seemed as if teams had started to figure out the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. And the frustrating injuries left him unable to build any momentum.
A low-grade hamstring strain, a knee sprain, and a dislocated elbow were too much to overcome. The Commanders eventually waved the white flag, shutting down Daniels for the year. It was a microcosm of how things unfolded for Washington, but all hope is not lost just yet.
- Regrade after Year 1: A++
- Regrade after Year 2: A+
Watching Caleb Williams and Drake Maye shine in the playoffs will only make him hungrier next season. Anyone writing him off is going to look extremely foolish.