The Washington Commanders selected Tennessee edge rusher Joshua Josephs with the 147th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, according to Yahoo Sports. The pick came later than some analysts and Volunteers fans expected, following teammate Jermod McCoy's selection early in the fourth round.
Josephs, a defensive end for Tennessee, now joins a Washington franchise looking to bolster its pass rush. His selection marks the second Volunteer taken in this year's draft, highlighting Tennessee's defensive talent pipeline.
While specific combine measurements or college statistics were not provided in the report, scouts previously noted Josephs' potential as a disruptive edge presence. The Commanders' pick at No. 147 reflects their strategy of adding depth in later rounds.
The fifth-round selection carries lower immediate expectations but offers the team a developmental prospect. Josephs will compete for a roster spot during training camp and preseason.
Some draft analysts questioned whether Josephs' production at Tennessee justified a mid-round pick, suggesting the Commanders may have reached for need over value.