4 young Commanders players already turning heads at 2023 training camp

Emmanuel Forbes - Commanders CB

The Washington Commanders were clearly expecting big things from Emmanuel Forbes after becoming especially enamored with the cornerback throughout their pre-draft evaluations. Judging by how the No. 16 overall selection has performed over training camp so far, he's keen to repay this supreme faith.

Forbes has looked the part in terms of coverage and is holding his own against some immensely talented wide receivers at Washington's disposal. Throwing the former Mississippi State standout at the deep end against Terry McLaurin is another sure-fire measuring stick to build upon moving forward.

The next big test for Forbes is this week during padded practices. Coping with the NFL's physicality with such a slender frame represents a challenge, but there was nothing to be overly concerned about on Tuesday despite competing in one-on-ones with 6-foot-4 wideout Marcus Kemp.

Things couldn't have gone much better for the rookie right out of the gate. Forbes looks like he belongs and unless something drastic happens beforehand, will be one of Washington's starting cornerbacks in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals.

If Forbes and second-rounder Quan Martin ensure the necessary improvements arrive in the secondary, then the Commanders' defense will be hard to overcome. It might even see Jack Del Rio's defense become the league's best when it's all said and done.