Kain Medrano - Commanders LB
- NFL-ready trait: Explosiveness in pursuit
The Washington Commanders saw something in Kain Medrano that they believe can be molded into a decent performer over time. Taking a linebacker over an edge rusher at this stage was a contentious issue among the fanbase, so it'll be interesting to see if the former UCLA standout can repay this faith.
Medrano comes highly recommended. His old coaches at the Bruins raved about his work ethic and athleticism. He also spent time working with Ken Norton Jr., who joined Washington's staff last season as linebackers coach.
That provides some confidence in his credentials. However, there is a lot of hard work ahead.
Medrano's tackling technique needs significant refinement. He missed way too many tackles in college, which could prove complicated when the margins get finer in the pros. His athletic scores were exceptional at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, but putting it all together consistently remains complicated.
If there was one thing Medrano has going for him as a rookie, it's explosiveness in pursuit. He's got the short-area quickness needed to close space quickly. If the tackling improves and his angles to the ball carrier become more disciplined, he might be able to carve out a rotational role for himself as the campaign progresses.
If not, perhaps a switch into the box safety role is something to consider.
Jaylin Lane - Commanders WR
- NFL-ready trait: Yards after catch creativity
Adding more to quarterback Jayden Daniels' supporting cast was the biggest priority above all else for the Commanders this offseason. Adam Peters knows he's got a special player on his hands. Doing everything possible to maximize his rookie contract before things get much more expensive to keep him around is the primary goal.
This didn't stop during the draft. The Commanders bided their time for another receiver, but they found high value with Jaylin Lane at No. 128 overall.
Ryan Fowler from The Draft Network reported that the wideout had an early second-round grade before being mismanaged over his final season with Virginia Tech. Linking up with play-caller extraordinaire Kliff Kingsbury should see improvements arrive quickly.
Lane has the speed to impact proceedings at all three levels of the field. He'll likely play more in the slot initially, but there's nothing to suggest he cannot go outside in motion when mismatch opportunities present themselves.
Until Lane enhances his route tree and becomes more effective in traffic, the Commanders can utilize his yards after the catch creativity. He's an electrifying weapon with the football in his hands, boasting a unique blend of elusiveness and explosiveness to take the smallest completions for big gains. Kingsbury will know exactly how to maximize the player's attributes, make no mistake about that.