The Washington Commanders have selected center Matt Gulbin with the 209th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Gulbin, who played four seasons at Wake Forest before transferring to Michigan State, is a five-year contributor and started in 34 games. Gulbin was a two-time Honorable Mention selection for the ACC and Big Ten and was a team captain for the Spartans in 2025.
"Three-year starter with average size and good power," wrote NFL.com's Lance Zierlein. "Gulbin is better at climbing to linebackers than he is at moving laterally to seal in the run game. He can be outreached at the point, but he stays tight to his block to reduce length disadvantages. He excels when washing away targets on inside-zone plays with strong leg drive. He anchors well in protection, but he must stay square and be more alert to loopers on twists. Short arms reduce his margin for error but his consistent body of work suggests he has a chance to make a roster as a center who can swing to guard in a pinch."
Gulbin was a strong pass protector both at Michigan State and Wake Forest. He played in 1,318 pass plays over five seasons and allowed only five sacks and as many quarterback hits. Gulbin was at his best last season with the Spartans, when he recorded a career-high 87.8 pass blocking grade from Pro Football Focus.
