How Michigan State’s Matt Gulbin can contribute to the Commanders as rookie

Perfect-world expectations: The Commanders will have a new starting center in 2026. Former Pro Bowler Tyler Biadaszstarted 31 games for Washington the past two seasons and provided quality work, but general manager Adam Peters chose to go in a different direction and released him. Nick Allegretti is the presumptive starter at this point, and signed an extension to remain with the club.

The Commanders are clearly looking for a long-term solution at an important position, hence the Gulbin selection. Gulbin was awesome at Michigan State and, in a best-case scenario, takes hold of the center spot right away. That’s far from mandatory, but he could assert himself and take hold of the center spot as the season progresses. That’s not likely, considering the cerebral nature of the position that is best captured by experience, but it’s possible.

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**Real-world expectations:**It’s always interesting to see how versatile interior offensive linemen are categorized during the NFL draft. It offers sneaky insight into how a player might be used by the team that selects him. Gulbin was classified as a center on draft day. That’s where he played in 2025, and he was excellent at it. Peters has said he’ll play center in Washington, though he can be a backup at all three interior spots.  While the Commanders are clearly looking for a long-term answer at center, there’s no rush to thrust him into the spotlight.

Actions speak louder than words, and the Allegretti extension and the Biadasz cut suggests confidence in the veteran option. Having Gulbin learn the offense at a slower pace is ideal, with him providing solid support in reserve at center and maybe guard in a pinch.

What are your expectations for Matt Gulbin in his rookie year? Add them in the comments below.