Commanders News: Chase Young, Emmanuel Forbes, Percy Butler and Kazmeir Allen

Commanders CB Emmanuel Forbes tipped for major honor

Emmanuel Forbes was always the Washington Commanders' top choice at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. There are concerns about his frame and whether it can withstand a grueling 17-game NFL slate, but the cornerback hasn't put a foot wrong since joining the team to raise expectations further.

Forbes looks likely to start in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals and the Commanders are hoping he can become the true shutdown presence they've been sorely lacking. If the former Mississippi State star reaches this goal, Will Brinson of CBS Sports believes he is a tremendous bet to win NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

"Very tough DROY class and the market reflects it. Forbes is the pick here because he has very elite ball skills plus very, VERY elite "take the ball to the house" skills (six in a season for Mississippi State). If you want to back a defensive back for this award, you back one who can house a few turnovers. The Washington defense is good enough not to lean on him, which means he could end up having even more opportunities for big plays."

- Will Brinson, CBS Sports

If Forbes brings his ballhawk credentials to the pros, he'll be among the frontrunners for the award. Will Anderson Jr. and Jalen Carter head the market currently, but dismiss the dynamic defensive back at your peril.

Forbes is probably not thinking about individual accolades right now. His primary focus is helping a supremely talented defense take that next step into the league's most prolific - something that would do the Commanders' postseason chances the world of good.