4 Commanders on the hot seat entering the 2024 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Emmanuel Forbes - Commanders CB
It's funny how things can change in just a few short months.
Emmanuel Forbes was the Washington Commanders' high-priority target at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft this time last year after being wowed by Ron Rivera. Following an underwhelming rookie campaign, the gifted cornerback should be watching developments throughout the current selection process closely.
Forbes was tasked with too much, too early by previous head coach Rivera. It was clear from a long way out that the former Mississippi State standout wasn't ready to handle starting responsibilities against some of the league's most prolific wideouts. He became physically outmatched and exposed as a weak link before his eventual benching.
Taking Forbes out of the firing line should have happened sooner. It did irreparable damage to his confidence throughout the previous campaign. When he was reinstalled into the lineup, the same problems emerged.
Hopes are high that two renowned defensive back developers - Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. - can get a better tune out of Forbes. But it's also worth remembering that this regime has no emotional attachment to the player whatsoever.
The Commanders lost Kendall Fuller in free agency and signed several cornerbacks with different capabilities throughout free agency. This could be a sign more is on the way with Forbes. At the same time, Washington's brass could easily identify one of the top cornerback prospects to upgrade their options and provide extra competition.
It's way too soon to be giving up on Forbes. There's also no telling how the Commanders' new staff perceive his ability compared to those who previously held positions of influence. Something that might become clearer during the 2024 NFL Draft.
Forbes will be nervously awaiting what comes next. However, the most important thing from the player's perspective is making sure the right improvements are made in pursuit of better fortunes next season regardless of whether another legitimate starting corner comes in or not.