The NFL waiver wire never fails to deliver surprises, and the latest bombshell came on Monday as the Los Angeles Rams claimed former first-round cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. off waivers from the Washington Commanders. The shocking move sees a young defensive star land in LA after a tumultuous start to his pro career in the nation’s capital.
Forbes’ Rocky Road in Washington
Drafted 16th overall by the Commanders in 2023, Forbes entered the league with sky-high expectations after a record-setting college career at Mississippi State. The ball-hawking corner tied the Division I record with 14 interceptions, including an astonishing six pick-sixes.
However, Forbes struggled to find his footing with the Commanders. He started seven games across his first two seasons but was benched multiple times and missed several games due to injury. The coaching staff that drafted him was replaced after his rookie year, and the new regime apparently didn’t see Forbes as part of their long-term plans.
It’s a tough situation for any young player, especially a first-round pick. The expectations are immense, and if you don’t click with the new coaches, your days can be numbered. Forbes definitely has talent, but he needs the right system and opportunity.
– Unnamed NFL scout
Rams Pounce on Waiver Wire
Enter the LA Rams, who clearly still believe in Forbes’ potential. Head coach Sean McVay raved about the corner’s ball skills, versatility, and competitive fire. He revealed that the Rams had a high grade on Forbes coming out of college.
Emmanuel was a guy that we liked and had a familiarity with just based on the evaluation coming out of Mississippi State. We thought there was some good tape that he’s put out there, particularly later in the year last year.
– Sean McVay, LA Rams Head Coach
The Rams will hope a change of scenery can unlock the immense talent that made Forbes a first-round selection. Still just 23 years old, he has time to develop into the difference-making defensive back many projected.
Winding Road to the West Coast
Forbes’ NFL journey began with great fanfare in Washington, but a mismatched scheme, coaching changes, and injury misfortune derailed his time with the Commanders. Now, he gets a fresh start with the defensive masterminds in Los Angeles.
If anyone can maximize Forbes’ unique skills, it may be Raheem Morris and the Rams’ coaching staff. They’ve shown a knack for putting players in position to thrive, and a rangy, playmaking corner with a nose for the end zone could be a perfect fit.
What to Expect in Tinseltown
With Jalen Ramsey entrenched on one side, Forbes will likely compete for the No. 2 corner spot with Troy Hill and Robert Rochell. His ability to play outside and in the slot gives the Rams options to deploy their secondary creatively.
| Player | Age | Games Started | Interceptions | Pass Deflections |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jalen Ramsey | 29 | 16 (2024) | 3 | 14 |
| Emmanuel Forbes Jr. | 23 | 1 (2024) | 2 (career) | 11 (career) |
| Troy Hill | 31 | 12 (2024) | 1 | 6 |
| Robert Rochell | 25 | 5 (2024) | 1 | 8 |
Forbes’ four years of contract control give the Rams flexibility to groom him for the future, but his raw talent could earn him snaps right away. With Ramsey attracting attention on the other side, Forbes could feast on opportunities to make big plays.
Ram Tough Road Ahead
Of course, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Forbes still has much to prove after a disappointing start to his career. The speed of the game, complex schemes, and elite competition humble even the most hyped prospects entering the league.
But if Forbes can harness his prodigious physical tools and take to the Rams’ coaching, he could develop into a long-term cornerstone in LA. His journey is far from over, and this West Coast detour could be the launching pad his career needs.
The Rams have taken a low-risk, high-reward gamble on a player with tantalizing potential. In the cutthroat world of the NFL, one team’s castoff can become another’s treasure. Emmanuel Forbes Jr. is betting that a Hollywood ending awaits him in his new home.
