4 winners and losers from Commanders' early offseason workouts in 2023
By Dean Jones
Winner: Emmanuel Forbes - Commanders CB
After Emmanuel Forbes became the No. 16 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, it became clear that the explosive cornerback was extremely high on the Washington Commanders' board. Perhaps even their top choice of all if the footage of Ron Rivera on the morning of round one is any indication.
It's not hard to see why the Commanders were so infatuated with Forbes. He was a bonafide ballhawk at Mississippi State and although undersized, has that X-factor quality that simply cannot be taught.
After catching the eye during Washington's rookie minicamp, it only heightened the level of intrigue as Forbes got set to lock horns with some exceptional veteran pass-catchers when the time to congregate arrived. Thankfully, this was a challenge the incoming first-rounder was ready for in no uncertain terms.
Forbes did have his moments of struggle, which was expected against accomplished performers such as Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and Curtis Samuel. But the defensive back didn't look out of place whatsoever despite still learning how things work in the pros.
If Forbes keeps this up throughout the team's upcoming training camp and when he comes up against Odell Beckham Jr. among others during joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, the Commanders will start him in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals. There will be some tough times right out of the gate, but this could be the lockdown presence Washington's craved for some time.