Former UCLA linebacker Kain Medrano isn't expected to make much of an impact on the Washington Commanders this season.
Medrano was taken in the sixth round of the 2025 draft after a five-year career with the Bruins. He joined a Commanders team that was already set when it came to their starting linebacker room.
All-Pro Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu are considered one of the better linebacker duos in the sport.
Despite their success, Washington knew they needed to address the position in April's draft.
And why?
Wagner is 34 years old. His playing days are coming to an end.
Most sixth-round picks don't turn into starters, but the Commanders have high hopes that Medrano can make an impact … eventually..
“Kain, he's a unique kid because of his receiver background coming in," Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. said. "Is he a linebacker really? Is he a safety? Can he do some of the [Las Vegas Raiders S] Jeremy Chin roles? Can he do some of the Frankie Luvu roles?
"And so, we're really testing the kid right now to see, alright, what is he going to be? And we'll really tell a little bit more once we put the pads on."
Medrano is certainly a versatile piece that the Commanders can build on. His rookie season is expected to be mostly tied to special teams, but if something happens to Wagner or Luvu, they want to make sure the UCLA product is ready for anything.
Medrano appears to be taking that well.