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

In this story:
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.

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.
More Washington Commanders News
• What to know about Commanders' No. 245 pick, RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt
• Commanders QB reveals wild recruitment story
• 3 bold NFL Draft predictions that could involve the Commanders

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.
Follow JodymyJo