Lost in the talk surrounding Philadelphia Eagles rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell’s performance on Thursday night was another rookie cornerback. Washington Commanders rookie cornerback Mike Sainristil was equally as impressive as Mitchell, often with his less help.
While Mitchell often matched up with Commanders star Terry McLaurin, holding him without a catch (McLaurin had one reception for the game), the Eagles frequently gave him some help over the top.
Meanwhile, Washington’s struggling secondary needed someone to step up. Enter Sainristil. The second-round pick was expected to primarily play slot cornerback, but he’s been forced to play more outside out of necessity, and he’s thriving.
During Thursday’s loss to the Eagles, Sainristil matched up with A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith and Jahan Dotson. He allowed two receptions on the night for a total of 31 yards. PFF gave him a grade of 89.0 — Washington’s highest of the night.
Commanders’ fans know they have a gem in Sainristil. Now, others are taking notice, too.
Check out some of these reactions to Sainristil’s play from X.
Warren Sharp:
Sainristil looking goooood for a rookie pic.twitter.com/MKXHrNX0A9
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) November 15, 2024
Ryan Fowler:
Wayyyy too easy for Mike Sainristil.
Textbook from the rookie corner. pic.twitter.com/apFrV1WULU
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) November 15, 2024
Doug Farrar:
Mike Sainristil is here to clown everyone who thought he was just a slot defender, and the dude has receipts. pic.twitter.com/lTa7oWwF4I
— Doug Farrar
(@NFL_DougFarrar) November 15, 2024
Check out the tackling:
Heck of an open-field tackle by Sainristil! #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/oChOQlMQdz
— Chad Ryan (@ChadwikoTWW) November 15, 2024
Darius Butler:
Love watching Mike Sainristil play Football. Straight DAWG!!!
— Darius Butler (@DariusJButler) November 15, 2024
When Marshon Lattimore makes his debut, the Commanders’ cornerback position will quickly go from a weakness to a strength with him and Sainristil on the outside.