Commanders have a massive Mike Sainristil problem on their hands

"Things have not gone well for the Washington Commanders this season. Much has been made about the NFL's oldest roster looking exactly that, but younger players with long-term upside have not progressed effectively enough. That is arguably a much bigger problem. The Commanders weren't counting on many of their veterans beyond 2025. But for draft picks and other investments, their lack of progress is a genuine concern, leaving far more questions than answers."

"Sainristil struggled more often than not. His switch back into the nickel saw him targeted as a weak link with frequent success. He's given up the second-most receptions league-wide, and even three interceptions haven't papered over the cracks. The former Michigan standout showed brief promise when moved back to the boundary, but Sainristil reverted to type with a dismal outing against the Vikings. His 5-foot-9 stature became his undoing, with Minnesota's bigger receivers getting whatever they wanted."

Washington has underperformed this season, with an aging roster and younger players failing to develop as expected. The lack of progression among draft picks and developmental investments has created deeper problems than veteran decline. Second-year cornerback Mike Sainristil emerged as a central concern after struggling through the season. Sainristil excelled briefly as an outside corner as a rookie, but regression followed after a move back to the nickel, where he became a frequent target and has allowed the second-most receptions league-wide. Three interceptions have not offset consistent coverage breakdowns. A poor performance against Minnesota highlighted his size limitations. The team must determine where Sainristil can be most effective moving forward.

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