The Washington Commanders finalized their 2026 NFL Draft class on April 25, 2026, by selecting two players to enhance the team's depth in crucial areas on Day 3 of the event. With the 147th overall pick in the fifth round, Washington added edge rusher Joshua Josephs from Tennessee, followed by the 209th overall pick in the seventh round, center Matt Gulbin from Wake Forest.
General Manager Adam Peters and Head Coach Dan Quinn have emphasized building the team from the trenches outward, focusing on establishing a strong foundation to support the offense and defense alike. These selections embody that philosophy by addressing interior offensive line depth and adding a versatile pass rusher to bolster the edge rotation.
Joshua Josephs: A Relentless Edge Rusher
The Commanders made an impactful choice at No. 147 by drafting Tennessee's Joshua Josephs, a player known for his high motor and tenacity. Josephs operated primarily as a rotational pass rusher during his college career, allowing him to bring fresh legs and consistent effort to every snap.
While not the fastest or most physically dominant edge rusher in the class, Josephs compensates with his explosive first step and strong hand usage to disengage blockers effectively. Over his final two seasons with the Volunteers, he compiled 8.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, numbers that reflect solid production but perhaps undersell his consistent influence on the field.
This fifth-round pick projects as a reliable rotational pass rusher who could see significant playing time on passing downs as part of the Commanders' pass rush rotation. His experience as a key contributor on Tennessee's special teams also adds value and increases his chances of making an immediate impact. Josephs' work ethic and football IQ align well with Washington's culture, and with appropriate development, he could evolve into a complementary edge rusher.
Matt Gulbin: Versatile Interior Lineman
Later in the draft, the Commanders addressed the interior offensive line by selecting center Matt Gulbin of Wake Forest with the 209th overall pick. Gulbin's background includes 36 career starts at both center and guard positions, showcasing the versatility Washington covets given the need for adaptable backups in today's NFL.
At about 6-foot-4 and 305 pounds, Gulbin isn't the most physically imposing lineman, but his technique, leverage, and spatial awareness stand out. At Wake Forest, he often handled complex defensive fronts involving stunts and twists, demonstrating an advanced understanding of line calls and blocking angles. These attributes should ease his transition to the NFL, particularly in a role requiring flexibility between center and guard spots.
The Commanders have designated interior line depth as a priority, especially as consistent protection up front was a challenge during the 2025 season. Gulbin provides insurance and competition behind the established starters and could eventually compete for more significant playing time if injuries or performance issues arise.
The Strategic Value of These Picks
While neither Josephs nor Gulbin are expected to become immediate starters in 2026, both fit the Commanders' blueprint of effective drafting focused on character, intelligence, and positional versatility. Late-round picks like these often don't headline draft day but can play crucial roles when the grueling demands of a 17-game season test team depth.
Gulbin's ability to play multiple interior line positions allows the Commanders flexibility in roster construction, potentially freeing up spots for other roles. Josephs adds depth to a pass rush that must remain fresh through extended regular season play and will contribute on special teams, a vital factor for late-round picks aiming to secure roster spots.
These selections reinforce the Commanders' methodical approach under Adam Peters and Dan Quinn: building sustainable roster depth with players who understand their roles and possess the intangibles necessary for NFL success.
What Fans Can Expect Moving Forward
Washington's 2026 draft class will take several years to fully evaluate, but fans should watch for these players in training camp and preseason as they advocate for roles on the active roster. Injuries and situational package usage will likely be the gateway for their immediate opportunities during the season.
Neither Matt Gulbin nor Joshua Josephs will make headlines on draft night or open up strong merchandise sales, but their contributions may become decisive when depth and reliability count most. The Commanders strengthened two critical areas where games are often won and lost--the offensive line interior and edge pass rush rotation.
By investing in these players, Washington continues its focus on depth, versatility, and character as pillars in building a winning team. The trenches, once again, are where the Commanders expect to find their edge in 2026.