Commanders Could Have Future Star at Cornerback

The Washington Commanders took a lot of pride in their passing defense in 2024, as they allowed the third-fewest passing yards in the league.

And they could further improve in 2025 due to some young players making an impact.

In a recent article by Bleacher Report's Matt Holder, he picks the player who he thinks is every team's best-kept secret. For the Commanders, he thinks that player is sophomore cornerback Mike Sainristil.

"College football fans know Sainristil well since he was the MVP of the Big Ten Championship and had the game-clinching interception in the National Championship during Michigan’s 2023-2024 postseason run," Holder wrote. "In his lone NFL season, the former Wolverine proved to be a valuable addition to the Commanders’ secondary, lining up at nickel and outside cornerback."

Washington selected the 24-year-old defensive back with the 50th pick in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and he immediately made his presence felt.

He racked up a very impressive 93 total tackles in his rookie season, as well as one tackle for loss and once forced fumble. He was also able to show his ball-hawk skills with two interceptions and 14 passes defended.

He was also able to get the job done in the playoffs, grabbing two more interceptions and defending four more passes.

The Commanders traded with the New Orleans Saints to acquire veteran corner Marshon Lattimore last November, and he could mentor the young Sainristill to be an even better player.

And then? A possible step up to stardom for the youngster.