Carolina Panthers and NFL Draft prospect Mike Sainristil are a great fit for many reasons

The Carolina Panthers are turning over a new leaf in 2024, but Ejiro Evero is still the defensive coordinator, which goes to show how good of a DC he is.

The Panthers defense lost Brian Burns, but new general manager was able to bring in some solid names in Jadeveon Clowney, D.J. Wonnum, and Jordan Fuller, among others. Overall, the unit is in pretty good shape, on paper, heading into the draft.

There's one position, however, that really needs to be addressed and that's the nickel position. 

Fortunately, there's one guy in former Michigan Wolverine, Mike Sainristil, that can help Evero with just that.

Last year's nickel, Troy Hill, is still on the roster, but the defense needs competition at the position, so his presence won't deter Morgan and Dave Canales from selecting Sainristil, potentially in the second or third round of the draft, where the Panthers have a combined three picks. 

Sainristil is small in stature, but plays a huge game, evidenced by his six interceptions and two pick-sixes from last year. He's physical, aggressive, and unafraid to put a hit on guys, whether it be in the pass or run game. Evero can blitz him off the line and he's an excellent athlete who has the quick feet and twitchy hips to succeed at the next level.

He's also a former wideout and has only played defensive back for two years. Not only does being an ex-receiver help him anticipate breaks and read routes, but the fact he's already playing at this high of a level after a position change is proof of his elite football IQ.