Which Washington Commanders news stories are making headlines as fresh details emerge about when the franchise's $6.05 billion sale could be approved?
As the Washington Commanders embark on summer break before their annual training camp in Ashburn, all eyes are slowly turning to the Josh Harris group's bid to get their $6.05 billion purchase confirmed. Something that would spark scenes of mass celebration across the fanbase and instantly install a level of hope not seen for more than two decades.
Among the stories causing conversation recently include Josh Harris making alterations to the financial documentation, potential dates for the formal vote, Darrick Forrest receiving recognition, and Emmanuel Forbes' potential impact as a rookie.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders S Darrick Forrest gets recognition
The emergence of Darrick Forrest in 2022 was enormously encouraging. His rise into the starting lineup gave the Washington Commanders among the league's most dynamic young safety tandems alongside Kamren Curl, which could be a sign of great things to come for the duo moving forward.
Forrest was a surprise nobody outside of the Commanders saw coming. Something that was recognized by Doug Farrar from USA Today Sports, who named the former Cincinnati stud to his All-Underrated Team heading into the 2023 season.
"Perhaps the most encouraging thing about [Darrick] Forrest’s 2022 season is how much he improved as it went along. He was in a bit over his skis to start, and that resulted in some out-of-position busts against the run and the pass. But as things progressed, Forrest became much more of the kind of deep-third player who could be trusted to make the big play at the right time. This athletic interception of a Jalen Hurts deep attempt to A.J. Brown in Week 10 is one such example."Doug Farrar, USA Today Sports
This was Forrest finally getting the recognition he deserves. But if the defensive back continues improving heading into Year 3 of his professional career, it won't be long before the 2021 fifth-round pick becomes a household name.
Josh Harris' financial adjustments for Commanders sale
Despite the Washington Commanders' sale proceeding as expected, there were a few concerns about the $6.05 billion agreement between Dan Snyder and Josh Harris' ownership group. All parties remained hopeful everything could be worked out, with a pivotal meeting with the NFL's finance committee last week set up to iron out any remaining obstacles.
This reportedly centered on the private equity structure associated with the record-breaking deal potentially breaking league rules. But according to Mike Ozanian of Forbes, Harris has agreed to alter the initial documentation in readiness for a formal vote among other NFL owners.
"Although the private equity funds would not have directly owned equity in, or loaned money to, the Commanders, the NFL was concerned that the private equity financing skirted NFL rules. The private equity financing for the $6.05 billion deal was to come from Arctos Sports Partners and Ares Management. The Arctos loan was against Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, according to two sources familiar with the negotiations who requested anonymity."Mike Ozanian, Forbes
It's all very intricate and for most, boring. All that matters to fans is everything working out positively and the Commanders falling into different ownership at the earliest possible opportunity.
Harris and his team of investors have a reported net worth of $100 billion, which is reason enough for optimism. Given how desperate everyone is to rid themselves of Snyder, perhaps certain elements of a typical transaction might be overlooked in this instance.
Commanders CB Emmanuel Forbes' potential
Emmanuel Forbes' seamless transition to the Washington Commanders has been a breath of fresh air. There are some who remain concerned about his durability at the next level, but the No. 16 overall selection clearly boasts certain athletic traits and instincts that cannot be taught.
This is why the Commanders were so infatuated with Forbes during their pre-draft process. It's also why the former Mississippi State standout was ranked at No. 3 in Ralph Vacchiano of FOX Sports' list of NFC East rookies who could make the biggest impact.
The writer also made a telling argument regarding Washington playing to Forbes' strengths thanks to the presence of Kendall Fuller and Benjamin St-Juste. Something the Commanders hope comes to fruition in 2023.
"The only thing standing in the way of [Emmanuel] Forbes' impact potential is that the Commanders' starting corners from last year — Kendall Fuller and Benjamin St-Juste — are both back. And that, in fact, could enhance his value. With Fuller and St-Juste locked onto the better receivers, Forbes will have more of a chance to roam and do what he does best — go get the ball. That's what the Commanders want. They don't need him to lock down bigger NFL receivers. They need him to be the guy who had six interceptions last season, 14 in three years, and an NCAA Division I record six Pick-6s."Ralph Vacchiano, FOX Sports
If the Commanders can get more consistency from their cornerback room, it'll make a huge difference to a defense that's already considered to be among the league's best. There's a lot riding on Forbes' ability to make an immediate impact, but it's a challenge he's relishing so far.
NFL saves dates for Commanders sale vote
Almost immediately following a report that indicated Josh Harris had made the alterations needed to the financial aspect of his group's projected purchase of the Washington Commanders, another exciting development got fans in a frenzy. And it could be the biggest indicator yet that the end is near for this ongoing saga.
According to multiple reports via Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the NFL has set aside two dates - July 20 and August 8 - for specially arranged meetings with the approval vote firmly in mind. This would mean Harris' group would take official charge during Washington's training camp heading into the 2023 season.
"The sale of the Commanders is moving toward a conclusion. And some of the really rich folks who might have vacations planned in late July and early August might have to revise their itineraries. Per multiple reports, the NFL informed its owners through a Friday, June 9 memo that they should hold the days of July 20 through August 8 for a possible meeting to vote on the approval of the sale of the Commanders from Daniel Snyder to Josh Harris."Mike Florio, Pro Football Talk
Fans are slowly adjusting to optimism rather than pessimism over two decades. People can get almost attached to misery and moaning, but that might not be associated with the Commanders for much longer if the vote goes as everyone anticipates.
There are some exciting times ahead. If everything goes according to plan in the coming weeks, then a summer of celebration and jubilation awaits.