The Washington Commanders have seen flashes of promise from Joshua Josephs in his first three NFL games. But with veteran edge rusher Charles Snowden arriving and expected to get involved quickly, one has to wonder how defensive coordinator Daronte Jones can get him on the field.
Josephs has talent, but this is a numbers game. However, a slight course correction could be a win-win for all parties involved.
The fifth-round pick has the length and explosiveness to make a real difference. Josephs has a quick first step, violent hands, and reads the game well. The problem? He may be a little undersized to be an every-down edge player in the pros.
Joshua Josephs switch to inside linebacker could benefit the Commanders
Washington could fix that by experimenting with Josephs at inside linebacker.
Now, that would take time to transition. But Josephs has the traits to flourish in this role, with the required refinement in his skills and positional sense.
At 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds, Josephs is the perfect size for a middle linebacker. For context, London Fletcher was 5-foot-10 and 242 pounds, and Frankie Luvu is 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds. Height and weight wouldn't be a problem, but he might need to add some muscle mass to make this work.
Aside from that, there is a lot to like.
Josephs can tackle. We all know how he can get after the quarterback. One of the biggest things that jumped out when he joined the Commanders was his surprising ability in coverage, which drew praise over the summer.
I don't know about you, but those sound like good linebacker traits to me.
Joshua Josephs has the athletic tools to be a productive inside linebacker
The Commanders could easily keep Josephs on the edge as he learns behind veterans such as Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, and Dorance Armstrong Jr. this season. With two of those three out of contract in 2027, he could have a bigger role in Year 2 of his professional career if his development justifies it.
But with questions at the defensive second level, it might be worth seeing whether Josephs can adapt enough to make the move inside.
If it doesn't work, the Commanders can move him back to the edge, where they know he can perform.
But if it comes off, it would be a masterstroke.
Frankie Luvu is a free agent in 2027 and may not return. Leo Chenal suffered a season-ending fractured neck, and though he is expected to make a full recovery, that isn't a guarantee. Sonny Styles is a stud in the making, but he cannot do it alone.
Josephs would be a wild card of sorts, and it may not be something the Commanders are considering. But time is on their side with the No. 147 overall selection, so bringing him along for a gradual switch to inside linebacker also takes the pressure off.
If he also picks things up quickly, this gives Jones another versatile presence who can play anywhere along the second level.
It's just a thought. But the potential benefits are evident.
And it would definitely improve Josephs' chances of a prominent role long term.
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