Commanders News: Sam Howell, Ron Rivera, Emmanuel Forbes and Chase Young

Commanders impressed with Emmanuel Forbes

The Washington Commanders were fully confident in Emmanuel Forbes to the point of obsession during their pre-draft assessments. Based on the cornerback's performances since joining the franchise, those in power might have something special on their hands.

Forbes asserted his dominance in no uncertain terms over the opening few days of training camp. His ability to create turnovers has come to the fore and the No. 16 overall selection is holding his own in coverage despite being matched up against Terry McLaurin more often than not.

This outstanding consistency drew praise from head coach Ron Rivera, who stated via the team's website there's a good chance Forbes receives meaningful starting reps immediately and will shine as a result.

"I think realistic expectations are for him or at every opportunity he gets is to play and play well. He's a young man that works hard. He's a very smart, diligent young man when it comes to learning and trying to learn. He's got tremendous study habits. He does the things that he needs to do to put himself in position and then when you watch the way he plays, you see how he plays. He practices the way I believe he's gonna play and that's hard and smart."

- Ron Rivera via Commanders.com

This is far better than many envisaged where Forbes is concerned. We'll see how he copes with the more physical aspect once the pads go on next week, but it's all systems go for the one-time Mississippi State star up to now.

If the same trend continues in the coming weeks, Forbes is a lock to start in Week 1.