Washington Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil has been recognized as the Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Week for Week 18, following an impressive performance in the victory against the Dallas Cowboys. Sainristil recorded a career-high 10 tackles (7 solo) and defended 3 passes during the game on Sunday.
While Commanders fans are used to the award going to a Washington player, this is the first time this season that it hasn’t been quarterback Jayden Daniels– who has won the award 11 times this season (an NFL record). Daniels was the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, while Sainristil was drafted in the 2nd round with the 50th overall pick.
On the season, Sainristil has 93 total tackles (62 solo), one forced fumble, two interceptions, and 14 passes defended. He has started 16 of 17 games on the season.