3 winners (and 2 losers) from Commanders 2024 minicamp

Loser No. 2

Emmanuel Forbes - Commanders CB

The Washington Commanders selected Emmanuel Forbes at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft to be a shutdown cornerback. Things didn't work out as planned once the 180-pound player was roughed up by bigger-bodied NFL wide receivers.

His first-year struggles put a spotlight on Forbes entering camp. Sadly, the 23-year-old hasn't turned heads as a more game and physical scrapper this offseason.

Instead, Forbes is still garnering attention for the wrong reasons. Specifically, a photo taken at his youth football camp and featuring the player prompted more negative reactions about Forbes' slight frame on social media.

The physicality issue is not just some pesky narrative for Forbes to shake. It's a genuine concern now Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. are running the defense.

Quinn has traditionally favored big corners who can play press and handle the demands of man coverage. Forbes seems ill-equipped for the role, but there is no shortage of alternatives after the Commanders signed Michael Davis and Noah Igbinoghene in free agency. They also used a second-round pick to draft Mike Sainristil.

This trio joining towering Benjamin St-Juste could leave Forbes scrambling for new ways to prove his worth. Perhaps that's why the Commanders have been trying him as a punt returner during mandatory practices. 7News DC's Scott Abraham observed the defensive back taking part in this "fun" routine.

More freedom to use the open-field skills that helped him return six interceptions for touchdowns at the collegiate level could salvage Forbes' career. If it doesn't work, the player's losing streak will continue and keep him on the sideline for both defensive and special teams duties.

There's a way back for Forbes, but embracing a new role might be easier than bulking up and altering his play style. Making the most of a change is working for another first-round disappointment.