Commanders' defensive reset could spark under the radar rise fans won't expect

"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."

The Washington Commanders won five games last season while several members of the 2025 draft class produced encouraging performances. Josh Conerly Jr. improved across the year and projects as a long-term starting offensive tackle. Trey Amos showed promise before suffering a fractured fibula in Week 10. Jacory Croskey-Merritt contributed immediately in the backfield and Jaylin Lane returned multiple punts for touchdowns. Sixth-round linebacker Kain Medrano saw only special-teams snaps, though he recovered a fumble in Week 16. Coaching limited his opportunities. The arrival of Daronte Jones and a shift toward more 3-4 looks could create defensive snaps for Medrano, while free agency may bring additional linebacker competition.

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