Kain Medrano could be the primary beneficiary of veteran linebacker Nick Bellore's decision to retire just before training camp. But there was no sign of the second-year player over the first week due to injury.
Now, all signs are pointing up again.
The Washington Commanders confirmed that Medrano has passed all the necessary requirements and is now off the physically unable to perform list. This is the first big hurdle for the second-year pro to overcome. But make no mistake; the hard work is just beginning.
Kain Medrano is back to improve his chances of making the Commanders' roster
Medrano all but redshirted his rookie year in Washington, which was not especially surprising. The 2025 sixth-round pick made the team, but he wasn't used in the defensive rotation. There were flashes of promise on special teams, which is the niche he may have to carve out for himself to have a successful career.
Washington's linebacker corps got some major upgrades this offseason. They signed Leo Chenal from the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency and used the No. 7 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft on Sonny Styles. Frankie Luvu's presence gives new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones a potentially prolific trio, and Jordan Magee could also be a core part of the rotation with a strong summer.
Where that leaves Medrano is anyone's guess. He's got all the athleticism in the world, but the UCLA product remains a work in progress. His positional sense needs refinement, as do his tackling technique and pursuit angles. But until then, his speed can be a useful tool to call upon on special teams with Bellore no longer around.
Missing a little time was disappointing. But now, Medrano can firmly focus on making the improvements needed to raise confidence.
The Commanders will give him a chance, especially in the preseason. This is where Medrano can gain some invaluable experience in a game-day setting. Demonstrating more consistency will only help his cause, and getting some good practice work in beforehand is another positive working in his favor.
It could still go either way for Medrano. He's on the roster bubble, but Bellore's retirement improves his chances. The door is now open, but he still needs to demonstrate growth and raise confidence in the event his number is eventually called in the regular season.
Realistically speaking, Medrano is too far down the pecking order to justify any reps on defense unless one of the top guys gets hurt. But if he can stick around, that will be an achievement he can build on.
And the more involvement Medrano accumulates this summer, the better his aspirations will be.
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