Jayden Daniels is certainly the rookie everyone is talking about in Washington’s playoff run, but cornerback Mike Sainristil is another standout from the 2024 draft class playing a crucial role.
Sainristil, drafted in the second round, has made a significant impact, most recently with two interceptions in the divisional round win against Detroit. His next challenge comes in the NFC championship game at Philadelphia, where he will face Eagles wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
“It’s good to be a part of, for sure,” said Sainristil, reflecting on his journey. “What we did in college, it was great. I’m glad I was able to leave on that note. Currently being in this position, I’m definitely not going to take it for granted because of what others on the team have shared about being on the other side. I don’t ever want to experience that.”
From Receiver to Cornerback
When the Commanders selected Sainristil with the 50th pick in the draft, general manager Adam Peters was looking for a player with the ability to be a top nickel cornerback in the NFL. Sainristil had only been playing defense for two years after being switched from receiver by Michigan’s coach Jim Harbaugh. His transition has paid off, as he had an impressive senior year with six interceptions, including a game-sealing pick in the College Football Playoff final.
Though originally drafted as a nickel cornerback, Sainristil has been moved to the outside to become a lead cornerback, even after the Commanders traded for Marshon Lattimore. The adjustment has been successful.
“It doesn’t matter to me: I’ll go wherever they need me to go,” Sainristil said. “Every single week, the game becomes slower and slower. Just being able to take the coaching that I’m getting, learn techniques, and understand my assignment helps me focus on what I’m supposed to do.”
Big Plays and Contributions
Sainristil was instrumental in the Commanders’ wild-card round win over Tampa Bay, where he was tasked with covering Mike Evans in the second half. Evans had five catches for 84 yards and a touchdown through three quarters, but Sainristil limited him to just one catch for 8 yards in the final quarter, helping the Commanders secure a 23-20 victory.
In the divisional round against Detroit, Sainristil intercepted both Lions quarterback Jared Goff and receiver Jameson Williams. His performance helped Washington reach the NFC Championship game for the first time in 33 years. At 5-foot-10 and 182 pounds, Sainristil is proving that size isn’t everything.
Recognition from Teammates
“He’s a star, man,” said veteran safety Jeremy Chinn. “He plays bigger than he is. He’s aggressive. He has great vision, great eyes, and he trusts his instincts. He trusts what he sees, and he makes plays.”
Sainristil’s continued improvement comes from a balance between making game-changing plays and focusing on solid fundamentals. At 24, he knows when to take risks and when to play it safe.
“Over the course of a game, there’s probably three to five plays that are for sure going to look like what you saw on film,” he said. “When those plays come about, don’t be scared to go make it.”
Trust from the Coaching Staff
The Commanders’ coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., trust Sainristil’s football IQ and instincts, which were shaped by his experience playing on offense. His ability to understand the game has helped him excel as a full-time cornerback.
“Instincts are a really big part of it,” said coach Dan Quinn. “It’s the football smarts that go into it, as well. He doesn’t usually get fooled on something twice.”
Off-Field Connections and Team Spirit
Off the field, Sainristil has developed strong bonds with his teammates, especially with Daniels. The two became close during rookie camp, and their connection has only grown since then.
“We were around each other so much,” Daniels said. “Now it’s just like it’s a brother to me. We talk about everything: football, life and everything, ‘How’s the family doing?’ and stuff like that. It’s just bigger than ball.”
Sainristil’s Under-the-Radar Success
Despite ranking among the league’s rookies with 14 pass breakups and 90 tackles, Sainristil has flown under the radar, with Daniels often getting the spotlight. However, Sainristil is proud of his contributions and is happy to be part of this team.
“He deserves everything that he’s getting right now,” Sainristil said of Daniels. “I’m glad that I’m on the same team as him, I can tell you that much. It feels good to be going through this with him. Even all the other rookies in our class, everyone that they brought in, we have a tight bond. We all support each other, we all root for each other and I think that’s the type of things they were looking for when they did draft us.”
