The Green Bay Packers are showing interest in UCLA linebacker Kain Medrano, who has stood out at the East-West Shrine Bowl. Medrano has excelled in coverage drills, demonstrating his athleticism and versatility as one of the more impressive linebackers at the event. With their linebacker depth in mind, the Packers could look to add Medrano in the later rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.
There’s plenty to like about the former Pueblo East standout. His ability to excel in coverage is particularly notable. This past season, Medrano recorded two interceptions and broke up four passes, earning a spot on the 3rd Team All-Big Ten. His background as a prep wide receiver and defensive back gives him a distinct advantage in coverage, with exceptional agility that allows him to quickly open up in coverage. Medrano also has the speed to keep pace with tight ends and running backs at the NFL level.
In addition to his coverage skills, Medrano has shown his value on special teams. He contributed on the Bruins' punt return, punt coverage, and field goal block units. His timing and ability to block kicks stand out, and his speed and agility make him an ideal special teams player, particularly for kick coverage.
Kain Medrano comes up with the blocked punt!
— UCLA Football (@UCLAFootball) November 5, 2023
📺: FS1
🖥️: https://t.co/jrTMSerf7Z#GoBruins pic.twitter.com/yBWMMU7Q73
Medrano also boasts elite character. Having worked with him while coaching at Pueblo East, I can vouch for his leadership, work ethic, and reliability. His strong family background helped shape these qualities, and he’s earned consistent praise from his coaches at UCLA.
Former East football great & 3 Sport Star Kain Medrano will be playing today in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl!
— Pueblo East Football (@PuebloEast_FB) December 30, 2022
Not only was Kain great in his Athletic’s but his attendance was phenomenal and he carried a 4.0 while at East. Way to set the standard for what a kid from Pueblo can do! pic.twitter.com/VjDMI9A7xd
However, one concern about Medrano is his size. At the East-West Shrine Bowl, he measured in at just 219 pounds, which is considered small for an NFL linebacker. His lack of size affects his ability to defend against the run, and for him to earn meaningful playing time on defense, he’ll need to bulk up.
As for where the Packers could draft Medrano, they could likely select him in the fifth round. Should they draft him, he would probably serve as a backup linebacker and a key contributor on special teams.