On Thursday, Commanders DC Joe Whitt Jr. was asked what has impressed him the most about rookie cornerback Mike Sainristil.
Whitt didn’t waste anytime answering the question.
“Mikey is just a high-level competitor. That’s what’s impressed me the most. He doesn’t shy away from anybody that’s in front of him.”
Gotta wrap, but watch Mike Sainristil (0) bench press Calvin Austin.
Rookie out of Michigan continues to flash. pic.twitter.com/w14FwuAK1d
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) November 10, 2024
Sure enough, Sainristil was lined up outside against the likes of A.J. Brown in Washington’s 26-18 loss to Philadelphia in their Week 11 contest.
In the game, Sainristil not only provided good coverage on most of his assignments but also, for the first game this season, knocked down two passes intended for the receiver to whom he was assigned.
Whitt likes the former Michigan Wolverine’s flexibility and desire to adapt to whatever circumstances the Commanders need that week.
“We ask the young man to play inside and outside early and for the betterment of the defense and say, ‘Okay, we’re going to put you to the field, all right, and you’re going to stay there.’ And he’s made it at home.”
Coaches are always concerned with how well a rookie will adapt to the pro game. Some adapt well, and some seem to have difficulty with the upgrade in talent and complexity of schemes each week.
Whitt is confident in Sainristil’s ability to listen carefully and communicate clearly. Whitt likes Sainristil’s maturity.
“He’s not playing like a rookie, and he doesn’t communicate like a rookie. If you’ve talked to the young man, he’s very polished, he’s very mature. And so, but just the way his competitive spirit is what I’m most impressed with.”
