The Washington Commanders won only five games last season. But if there was any solace, it's that Adam Peters' 2025 NFL Draft class largely made positive impressions.
First-round offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. showed significant improvement as the year went along, establishing himself as a long-term puzzle piece. Second-round cornerback Trey Amos was promising before his season ended with a fractured fibula in Week 10. Seventh-rounder Jacory Croskey-Merritt was a revelation in the offensive backfield from the moment minicamp began, and fourth-round wide receiver Jaylin Lane had multiple punt return touchdowns.
That leaves only Kain Medrano, who struggled to make an impact in his first NFL campaign. The sixth-round linebacker only played on special teams, with his lone highlight being a fumble recovery on the opening kickoff in Week 16 against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Coaching was blamed for his lack of opportunities. Now with Daronte Jones in charge of the defense, we'll see there's room for him to carve out a role.
Daronte Jones' 3-4 defense should show what the Commanders have in Kain Medrano
Medrano's profile is intriguing. During his time at UCLA, he was praised for his decisiveness and man-coverage ability, but there were concerns about his tackling and lack of size. In Year 1, he didn't play enough to exactly affirm or dispel his scouting report, but he should have an opportunity to change that if he can put together a strong offseason.
Jones is expected to incorporate more 3-4 defensive sets into his scheme, which could open the door for a player like Medrano or undrafted free agent Ale Kaho. Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee are likely set to be full-time starters, but with veteran Bobby Wagner almost certainly out the door, it's anyone's guess as to who else steps in.
Surely, Peters will prioritize signing at least one linebacker in free agency, potentially going after a big fish like Quay Walker or Nakobe Dean. A player like Medrano or Kaho shouldn't be expected to start, but opportunities will be there to play their way into meaningful snaps.
For the second-year pro, that's all he might need to silence some lingering doubters.
Washington didn't draft him to be a superstar or even a starting-caliber contributor. Even so, it would be ideal if he could at least find his way onto the field on defense to show what he's made of.
Wherever his career goes from there is up to him.