The Washington Commanders have one final shot at a win during the 2025 season, when they visit the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 18. That also means it's the last opportunity for one overlooked rookie to make his presence known.
Washington's 2025 NFL Draft class has featured more hits than misses. Josh Conerly Jr. has developed nicely. Trey Amos is hurt, but he showed promise beforehand. Jaylin Lane scored two punt return touchdowns, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt has been one of the best rookie running backs in the NFL.
The forgotten man is sixth-round linebacker Kain Medrano, who has only played on special teams this year. He's got one more week to change that.
Commanders need to find out what they have in Kain Medrano
Washington has nothing to play for in its season finale except for draft position and bragging rights. This is a game in which veteran players should be getting a lighter workload, and the youngsters should see the field as often as possible. One of those players in question is Medrano, who has yet to see his first defensive snap of 2025.
The former UCLA Bruin has had a solid season on special teams. It was against the Eagles two weeks ago that he recorded his highlight of the year, recovering a fumble on the opening kickoff. His snap counts have steadily increased, playing a season-high 24 against the Dallas Cowboys on Christmas Day.
Now he needs to take the next step. Dan Quinn has done a good job of getting Washington's other young linebacker, Jordan Magee, more involved. He's made seven starts and been a regular fixture since the midway point of the campaign. But there needs to be room for Medrano, and this is the week to make it happen.
Bobby Wagner is likely playing in his final game with the Commanders, and perhaps in the NFL altogether. He should be getting a manageable workload as a result. Frankie Luvu has often lined up at defensive end to cover for Washington's laundry list of injuries at the position. The team has also used more three-linebacker sets this season than in the past, which has helped Magee carve out a role.
Medrano has waited all season to get on the field. You can bet he'll be hungry to make an impact if he gets the opportunity.
It's time to turn him loose.