Breaking news – August 15, 2024: Focus shifts to Mikey Sainristil and other players during the Commanders’ joint practice in Miami today.
Mike Sainristil shines as a ‘star,’ and the Commanders are confident he can rise to the occasion
The rookie from Michigan faces an ambitious role as a modern nickelback, a position with increasingly complex responsibilities.
Welcome to the NFL, Mike Sainristil. Here’s your role as a contemporary nickelback: be prepared to do it all.
You’ll need to cover top receivers from the slot without the safety of the sideline. If a tight end lines up, you’ll need to cover him as well. Be ready to blitz from the edge and handle your duties against the run, including blocking out that 320-pound guard charging at you. Feeling overwhelmed? We’re just getting started.
In the past, a slot defender—positioned between the offensive tackle and wide receiver—was considered a specialist. Now, nickel packages with five defensive backs and only two linebackers are standard. The Washington Commanders, led by Coach Dan Quinn, have rebranded this role with the title ‘star’ to reflect its significance.
At 23, Sainristil, who played a similar role at Michigan, stands under 5-foot-10 and weighs 182 pounds, smaller than most. However, Washington was undeterred and selected him in the second round this April.
The team is optimistic that his blend of agility and intelligence has prepared him for a prominent and demanding role early in his career.
