Commanders select Joshua Josephs with No. 147 overall pick

The Washington Commanders have chosen move rusher Joshua Josephs with the No. 147 overall pick within the 2026 NFL Draft.

Josephs, a four-year contributor for the University of Tennessee, recorded 104 tackles with 9.5 sacks and eight move breakups in his profession with the Vols. He was a two-year starter in 2024 and 2025 and led Tennessee with three pressured fumbles two years in the past.

“Long, upright edge defend with an NBA-caliber wingspan and room to continue filling out his frame,” wrote NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein. “Josephs uses his arms to stay separated from blocks and spill runs wide. However, he needs to get bigger and stronger to better support the run against NFL blocking. He has long strides and plus closing burst to chase and capture. His pass rush is the same on every snap, showing good burst and effort but a predictable track that is slowed by force.”

The Commanders have made a substantial effort to rebuild their move rush this offseason, signing gamers like Odafe Oweh and K’Lavon Chaisson throughout free company. However, there wasn’t a lot long-term safety for the place outdoors of the 2026 season, as a number of gamers’ contracts expired in 2027. Josephs, who many contemplate to be a developmental challenge, does repair a few of that concern whereas additionally permitting the Commanders to maintain a recent rotation up entrance.

“Part of the hockey defensive line rotation at Tennessee,” wrote Commanders analyst Logan Paulsen. “You have long arms and a good get off and constantly stresses tackles as a rusher. He’s a little bit of a gamble, but based on the film, one worth taking.”

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