The Washington Commanders will be expecting big things from their 2026 draft class. And even though edge rusher Joshua Josephs has a lot of hard work ahead, the fifth-round pick does have a window to something much bigger with a strong summer.
Josephs was projected as a Day 2 pick before sliding lower than expected. The Commanders didn't have a great need on the defensive edge, but general manager Adam Peters believed this was too good an opportunity to turn down at No. 147 overall.
Peters thought it was a steal. Head coach Dan Quinn agreed. And looking at the way Josephs applied himself over early offseason workouts, it's not hard to see why.
Commanders rookie Joshua Josephs could have a path to early playing time
The explosiveness and burst off the snap were as advertised. What was most surprising was Josephs' ability to drop back into coverage and make plays. That's something most pure pass-rushers cannot do effectively enough, so it could bring a different dynamic to Daronte Jones' defense if the same trend continues.
It's a good start from Josephs. The real tests are coming.
Things will obviously get a lot more intense over training camp, especially when the pads go on. Joint practices and the preseason will be a strong measuring stick for the first-year pro, which could potentially determine what his role will be in 2026.
If he shines, Josephs could form a core part of the defensive edge rotation. Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, and the returning Dorance Armstrong Jr. will lead the charge, but it would be surprising if the Tennessee product wasn't next in line.
And if he seizes the initiative whenever his number is called, who knows what Josephs might be able to accomplish.
Josephs is ambitious. He came into the Commanders with a chip on his shoulder, which has allowed him to transition smoothly. There is a lot to learn, but with established veterans like Oweh, Chaisson, and Armstrong to lean on, together with an accomplished coaching staff, this represents an outstanding environment to grow.
Tempering expectations would still be wise. The Commanders have enough options for Josephs to develop at his own pace. There has to be complete confidence before he makes the defensive rotation, which is why the preseason will be so important. Flashing in college is one thing, but doing the same against grown men at the pinnacle is something else entirely.
The Commanders make all their rookies earn it. Josephs is no exception, but he's got momentum on his side after an impressive offseason, so everyone connected to Washington's football franchise will be expecting this to continue.
And if that happens, this rough-draft diamond will be on his way to making believers out of doubters.
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