Commanders drafted Kain Medrano
- Linebacker | UCLA Bruins
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 205
The Washington Commanders had a desperate need to rectify their edge-rushing woes during the draft. Adam Peters didn't think it was as pressing a need as most fans, opting to ignore the options available in Round 6 in favor of one of the strongest linebackers at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Kain Medrano was a six-year college player at UCLA with considerable starting experience over the last two seasons. While his production was sketchy and his tackling was inconsistent at best, the Commanders feel like his athleticism can be molded into something more under professional-caliber coaches.
Getting to learn from Bobby Wagner makes this an exceptional landing spot for Medrano. He's a perennial All-Pro and future Pro Football Hall of Famer. The rookie should be hanging on his every word in pursuit of making his presence felt sooner than expected.
This is probably a special team pick more than anything. Medrano lacks the positional sense or technical prowess to be tasked with significant rotational responsibilities, especially if Jordan Magee gets a full offseason without any injury problems.
- Draft grade: C+
The pick is fine. Peters has the full trust of fans, and Dan Quinn is a great judge of defensive players, which is another encouraging element of this equation.
Commanders drafted Jacory Croskey-Merritt
- Running Back | Arizona Wildcats
- Round No. 7 | Pick No. 245
It took a long time, but the Commanders finally added a little extra spice to the running back room with their final selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. As far as storylines go, this will be one to watch once preparations for the upcoming campaign gather pace.
Adam Peters took Jacory Croskey-Merritt at No. 245 overall. The gifted backfield presence only played one game for the Arizona Wildcats in 2024 due to eligibility issues. But his 2023 production at New Mexico warranted further investigation from the Commanders' perspective.
Croskey-Merritt is an aggressive runner with the patience to wait if needed. He's a one-cut-and-go threat capable of gaining hard yards between the tackles. Although he doesn't possess an elite burst, the top-end speed is sufficient when he finally arrives at that point.
There is some work ahead. Croskey-Merritt's pass protection was non-existent and needs significant refinement. Adopting a lower pad level could also help upon joining the pro ranks, but there is a lot to like about his chances of shaking things up.
- Draft grade: B+
This was well worth a flyer from the Commanders. Croskey-Merritt's mere presence should raise urgency for others. After all, this was the adding competition regardless of need draft for Washington's fearless front-office leader.