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Kain Medrano ready to build with the Commanders after being drafted No. 205 overall

New Washington Commanders linebacker Kain Medrano is focused on hard work, brotherhood, and making an immediate impact in Washington.
Oct 19, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Kain Medrano (20) celebrates during the second half against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Kain Medrano (20) celebrates during the second half against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Becoming the No. 205 overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders, former UCLA Bruins linebacker Kain Medrano isn’t taking this opportunity for granted — and he’s already sending a message to his new teammates.

“I’m ready to work, guys,” Medrano said during a press conference after being selected by the Commanders.

Medrano made a big impact on the Bruins’ defense, finishing second on the team in sacks and creating five turnovers — three forced fumbles and two interceptions. Over his collegiate career, he totaled 194 tackles, 10 pass breakups, five forced fumbles, and three interceptions.

UCLA linebacker Kain Medrano
Feb 27, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; UCLA linebacker Kain Medrano (LB19) participates in drills during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The new Commanders linebacker ended his time at UCLA with 25 career starts, was named a team captain in 2024, and earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

Even though Medrano filled up the stat sheet at UCLA, he’s ready to turn the page and add his talent to the Commanders’ defense.

“I’m ready to come in there, put my head down,” Medrano said.

In addition to putting in the work, he’s excited to join the brotherhood — a culture that has become a driving force behind the Commanders’ on-field success.

“I want to get to know each and every one of them. I want to be able to create some friendships that will not be lost no matter how this journey goes,” Medrano stated.

As he heads to Washington, Medrano wants to make one thing clear:

“I’m just a hard worker, and I’m ready to get to business, get to work, and help the team in any way I can.”


READ MORE: Sports Illustrated grades for the Commanders' 2025 NFL Draft class

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2025 offseason.

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Joane Coley
JOANNE COLEY

Joanne Coley, from Prince George’s County, MD, is a communications professional passionate about storytelling and sports. She holds a bachelor’s in Communications from Kent State University and a Master’s in Communications/Public Relations from Southern New Hampshire University. Since 2018, she has served as Communications Manager at the Council of the Great City Schools. A foodie and traveler, Joanne is also a former state champion in high school shotput and standout athlete in softball.

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