On Thursday, Commanders DC Joe Whitt Jr. was asked what impressed him most about rookie cornerback Mike Sainristil.
Whitt wasted no time answering the question.
“Mikey is just a high-level competitor. That impressed me the most. He doesn’t shy away from anyone who stands in front of him.”
I have to finish, but look at Mike Sainristil (0) benching Calvin Austin.
The rookie from Michigan continues to shine.
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_)
In fact, Sainristil was out against the likes of AJ Brown in Washington's 26-18 loss to Philadelphia in Week 11.
During the game, Sainristil not only provided good coverage on most of his assignments, but in the first play of the season, Sainristil also knocked down two passes that were intended for the receiver he was assigned to.
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 to improve the defense and say, 'Okay, we're going to put you on the field and you're going to stay there.' And he made it home.”
Coaches are always concerned about how well a rookie will adapt to the professional game. Some adapt well, and others seem to struggle with the weekly development of their talents and the complexity of their plans.
Whitt is confident in Sainristil's ability to listen carefully and communicate clearly. Whitt likes Sainristil's maturity.
“He doesn’t play like a freshman and he doesn’t communicate like a freshman. If you spoke to the young man, he is very elegant and very mature. And so, but just the way his competitive spirit impresses me the most.”
