Commanders CB Emmanuel Forbes praised
The Washington Commanders have taken their time with cornerback Emmanuel Forbes through three weeks of the 2023 season. Their first-round selection has been on the field for just 57 percent of the team's defensive snaps, but he's done well overall despite a few expected mistakes from the inexperienced defensive back.
Forbes could see more work this weekend at the Philadelphia Eagles. The former Mississippi State star and wide receiver DeVonta Smith look evenly matched in terms of speed and size, but whether Jack Del Rio feels confident enough in altering his predominantly Cover 2 philosophy versus such a potent passing attack is another matter.
When discussing Forbes' growth so far, Ron Rivera was highly complimentary based on comments via Sports Illustrated. However, the head coach added there are some technical kinks that need to be resolved before the player reaches his true potential.
"He's got a tremendous skill set. He’s got great quicks, he's got a great plant and drive. Sometimes his footwork, his body positions, he can be better at it. He really can. He's such a young player and I just think it's about him refining the technique that he's going to use and he's going to play with."Ron Rivera via Sports Illustrated
Forbes is only going to get better the more game time he receives. And make no mistake, the Commanders will need him firing on all cylinders at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday.