NFL expert says Commanders have potential superstar teams won't see coming

The Washington Commanders' draft class in 2024 didn't just bring a franchise quarterback to the organization. Adam Peters also secured the services of a defensive cornerstone to build around for years to come.

Mike Sainristil enjoyed a phenomenal rookie campaign. The cornerback might be smaller in stature, but his ultra-competitiveness and supreme consistency allowed him to hit the ground running. Those in power were thrilled when the former Michigan star fell into their laps at No. 50 overall. Looking at his rookie exploits, it's not hard to see why.

Sainristil's contribution was immediate and impressive in equal measure. However, one NFL analyst believes the versatile defensive back is a relatively unknown quantity that teams might not see coming next time around.

Mike Sainristil names as Commanders' best-kept secret entering 2025 season

Matt Holder from The Bleacher Report named Sainristil as the best-kept secret on Washington's roster entering the 2025 campaign. While that seems a little far-fetched given the impact he made, it's a sign that the analyst believes the feisty corner could be primed for a genuine breakout season next time around.

College football fans know [Mike] Sainristill 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. 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. He also recorded 14 passes defended with two interceptions during the regular season, and added two more picks and four PDs during the playoffs.Matt Holder

Nobody who watched Sainristil last season needs an introduction to his capabilities. He thrived in the slot over the opening few games. When the Commanders were forced to switch him onto the boundary, he handled it with aplomb. It was the smoothest of transitions from college to the pros, and he's just getting started.

The Commanders have a strong cornerback unit heading into the new season. They signed two-time Super Bowl winner Jonathan Jones in free agency and drafted Trey Amos at No. 61 overall. Marshon Lattimore is expected to bounce back, and Noah Igbinoghene proved his worth as a dependable rotational piece in 2024. These additions give Sainristil the sort of supporting cast that could allow him to spend more time in the slot.

Hopes are high that Sainristil's rookie surge can become the start of a sensational career in Washington. He was the perfect fit for head coach Dan Quinn, but building on this immediate success is critical as the Commanders look to go one better and reach the Super Bowl.