The Washington Commanders' edge-rushing unit underwent a complete transformation this offseason, a high priority for general manager Adam Peters. However, the outstanding additions in free agency weren't enough for the front-office leader.
Peters found another explosive pass-rusher during the draft. And according to one respected analyst, the addition of Joshua Josephs could be a steal of epic proportions if the incoming rookie makes the desired improvements.
Josephs was projected to be a Day 2 pick, but he found himself midway through Day 3 before the Commanders ended his slide. Peters felt like the value here was too good to refuse, but it'll be interesting to see where the Tennessee product fits into the dynamic.
NFL analyst lauds Joshua Josephs as Commanders' draft class sleeper
Gennaro Filice of NFL.com thought Josephs could be the sleeper of Washington's draft class. He's got the physical tools; it's a case of finding a way to put everything together. If he can, this looks like a good environment to take off.
"Washington threw a bunch of resources at the pass rush in free agency, which made this pick a bit surprising. But clearly, [Adam] Peters was tempted by the notion of unearthing a DPR down in Round 5. [Joshua] Josephs has the length and explosiveness that you want off the edge, but he was never able to put it all together at Tennessee."
The Commanders see something in Josephs that others passed up. His burst off the snap is first-class, and even though he isn't the most physically imposing, he shows versatility in his athleticism. That matters, especially considering the creative ways new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones wants to scheme up pressure.
Josephs will be coming to Washington with a big chip on his shoulder. The edge force expected to hear his name called much sooner, but it didn't. That should provide the former Volunteers' standout with all the motivation needed. With experienced figures like Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, Dorance Armstrong Jr., and Charles Omenihu to learn from, there will be no excuses.
Washington has an abundance of weapons capable of consistently causing havoc in opposing backfields. Things got so bad last season that Frankie Luvu switched to the edge, and players were coming off the couch to log prominent reps. Now, there is balance and depth with proven options. And in Josephs, they have a rough diamond to mold into a capable performer.
The Commanders will give Josephs all the time he needs to progress his undeniable talent. But there is a growing sense that Washington could have a long-term piece of the puzzle with the correct growth.
That would be a massive win. Let's hope Josephs lives up to the hype.
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