UCLA Football Players Shine in NFL Draft
April 26, 2025 – The NFL draft concluded Saturday with three more UCLA football players hearing their names called: Kain Medrano, Jay Toia, and Moliki Matavao.
Linebacker Kain Medrano was selected by the Washington Commanders as the 29th pick in the sixth round (205th overall). Medrano reunites with former Bruins linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr., who took over the Commanders’ linebacking group this year. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 222 pounds, Medrano recorded the fastest 40-yard dash time of 4.46 seconds among linebackers at the NFL Combine and played a key role in UCLA’s defense, which allowed just 96.2 rushing yards per game last season.
Defensive tackle Jay Toia was chosen by the Dallas Cowboys as the first pick in the seventh round (217th overall). The 6-foot-2, 342-pound player started all 12 games and notched 25 tackles, providing crucial support to the defensive line.
Tight end Moliki Matavao was drafted by the New Orleans Saints, also in the seventh round (248th overall). The 6-foot-6, 260-pound athlete led UCLA with 41 receptions for 506 yards last season. Additionally, UCLA saw linebacker Carson Schwesinger and edge rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo selected on the draft’s second day.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
