Nick Saban’s words carry weight, and his latest high praise for Washington Commanders’ rookie Mike Sainristil explains just how special the former Michigan Wolverines cornerback has been. Saban used his voice to praise Sainristil right after he was selected in Round 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Mike Sainristil Received Glowing Endorsement From Former Alabama Coach Nick Saban
Reflecting on Sainristil’s NFL transition, Saban had said, “There’s a difference between ‘love’ and ‘loves’ — I loves this guy. I mean, this guy may be the best football player, pound-for-pound in the draft.”
Nick Saban’s comment on one of the better defensive rookies in the #NFL, Mike Sainristil:
"There's a difference between 'love' and 'loves' — I loves this guy. I mean, this guy may be the best football player, pound-for-pound in the draft.”
Watch Mikey dominate College Football… pic.twitter.com/kmEYyqsh3v
— College Football Report (@CFBRep) December 16, 2024
Sainristil’s college football journey through Michigan earned him respect from Saban and others. Originally committed to Michigan in November 2018, Sainristil enrolled early and immediately turned heads during 2019 spring practice.
While Michigan’s defensive coaches initially saw Sainristil’s potential as a cornerback, he began his career as a wide receiver. As a true freshman, he recorded eight receptions for 145 yards, including his first collegiate touchdown — a 73-yard performance against Notre Dame.
With the departures of key receivers like Donovan Peoples-Jones and Nico Collins, Sainristil stepped up as a more important part of Michigan’s offense during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. However, it was his 2022 transition to defense that defined his collegiate career.
In his first season as a cornerback, Sainristil tallied 58 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, seven pass breakups, and his first interception in the Fiesta Bowl against Max Duggan. Sainristil’s efforts earned him an All-Big Ten honorable mention.
By 2023, Sainristil’s defensive display had reached elite levels. As a two-time team captain, he was named a first-team All-American by The Sporting News, ESPN, and FOX. His season stats were remarkable: 44 tackles, one sack, six interceptions (two pick-sixes), and two forced fumbles.
Some additional highlights included being named MVP of the 2023 Big Ten Championship Game and delivering a game-clinching 81-yard interception against Michael Penix Jr. in the 2024 National Championship.
Sainristil’s excellence on both sides of the ball made him stand out at Michigan and a steal for the Commanders in the second round this past April.
As an NFL rookie, Sainristil wasted no time proving his worth. In his best outings yet, he notched seven tackles against the Carolina Panthers and the Tennessee Titans. He also forced and recovered his first fumble in Week 13, making him the third rookie in team history to have done both in the same game.
With 49 solo tackles (tied-60th), 11 passes defensed (tied-11th), two interceptions (tied-28th), and a forced fumble (tied-57th), Sainristil’s 2024 regular-season stats reflect his versatility and impact.
While Sainristil has excelled, the Commanders’ decision to move the 5’10”, 182-pounder outside highlights a depth concern at cornerback. Nevertheless, with Saban’s glowing endorsement and Sainristil’s immediate success, the Commanders may be building something special in their secondary.
