Texas Tech EDGE named developmental player Commanders should target
One of the players the Washington Commanders should target in the mid-to-late-rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft is the other Texas Tech edge rusher.
The 2026 NFL Draft is mere weeks away, and while most analysts and fans are focused on the first round, the draft is seven rounds for a reason. First-round draft picks have higher expectations than other players, but that doesn't mean teams don't find impactful players in the later rounds. The Washington Commanders found themselves a gem in the 2025 NFL Draft when they selected Jacory Croskey-Merritt in the seventh round.
He stepped up in the absence of Austin Ekeler and became an impactful part of the running back rotation. NFL teams know this happens every year; there are always players in late rounds who end up being top performers for their teams. So, while most of the league is heavily focused on the first round, Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo identified a mid-to-late-round developmental draft pick that each team should target.
For the Commanders, it is Texas Tech edge rusher Romello Height. Romello Height, EDGE, Texas Tech The Washington Commanders retooled their pass rush by signing Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, and Charles Omenihu in free agency. They should add rookie depth behind the veterans.
Texas Tech's Romello Height is undersized, but speed and effort led to a 10-sack season in 2025. Height has baseline athleticism to put on muscle mass and develop into a designated pass rusher. Height anchored the Red Raiders' defensive line opposite David Bailey, who is projected to be drafted high in the first round.