The Washington Commanders have drafted UCLA linebacker Kain Medrano with the No. 205 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Medrano (6-foot-3, 222 pounds) was a Third Team All-Big Ten selection who led his team with three forced fumbles. He also filled up the stat sheet for the Bruins in 2024 with 72 tackles, 1.5 sacks and two interceptions with one returned for a touchdown.
For his career, Medrano recorded 194 tackles with 10 pass breakups, five forced fumbles and three interceptions.
"Sixth-year senior and team captain with two years of starting experience," wrote NFL.com's Lance Zierlein. "Medrano's long, lean frame is more reminiscent of a strong safety than a linebacker."
Medrano, a three-star recruit out of Pueblo East High School, was the No. 10 recruit in Colorado as a receiver. He made the switch linebacker but didn't get significant action until the 2020 season. Medrano ended his career with 25 starts and was named a team captain in 2024.
Medrano told reporters that he is ready to learn from linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. as well as Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu. While Medrano's role will mostly come on special teams, he's excited to add depth to Washington's defense.
