Commanders Draft Joshua Josephs: Round 5 Edge Rusher Profile

The Washington Commanders have selected edge rusher Joshua Josephs from the University of Tennessee with the 147th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Josephs, a four-year player for the Volunteers, was chosen in the fifth round, adding depth to the Commanders’ defensive line.

Josephs recorded 104 tackles, 9.5 sacks and eight pass breakups during his college career at Tennessee. He served as a two-year starter in 2024 and 2025, leading the team with three forced fumbles in 2024, according to reporting from Heavy.com.

Physical Attributes and Scouting Reports

The 6-foot-3, 242-pound Josephs showcased athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine, recording a 4.73-second 40-yard dash. He also possesses long arms, measuring 34 1/4 inches, and an 83 7/8-inch wingspan, as noted by Commanders Wire.

“First thing that jumps off the screen with Josh Josephs is his explosiveness at 6’3”, 243. Then you see the speed-to-power with an understanding of how to use his elite length (34 1/4 arm). There’s an evident rush plan. DPR right away on the 3rd with the potential for more as he improves on run downs.”

Ryan Fowler

NFL Draft analyst Ryan Fowler highlighted Josephs’ explosiveness and use of his length as key strengths. Lance Zierlein, another NFL Draft analyst, described Josephs as an “edge defender with an NBA-caliber wingspan” but noted he needs to add strength to better support the run.

“Long, upright edge defender with an NBA-caliber wingspan and room to continue filling out his frame. 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.”

Lance Zierlein

Draft Position and Fan Reaction

Josephs was the third draft pick for the Washington Commanders in the 2026 NFL Draft, following the selections of Ohio State inside linebacker Sonny Styles (No. 7 overall) and Clemson wide receiver Antonio Williams (No. 71 overall). Some fans expressed excitement about the pick on social media.

“New Commanders EDGE Joshua Josephs is a STEAL at #147,”

Jay Daniels MVP (via X)

A Commanders fan account, Jay Daniels MVP, posted on X (formerly Twitter) calling Josephs a “steal” at the 147th pick. Despite pre-draft evaluations suggesting he might be selected earlier, Josephs ultimately became the Commanders’ fifth-round selection.

Prior to the draft, Underdog’s Hayden Minks noted Josephs’ potential, stating his “speed/length has a crazy high ceiling.” However, he also acknowledged that Josephs wasn’t prominently featured in mock drafts leading up to the event.