Rams Claim CB Emmanuel Forbes from Washington Commanders

The Los Angeles Rams have officially acquired cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. off waivers from the Washington Commanders, as confirmed by head coach Sean McVay on Monday. This acquisition follows Forbes’ release from the Commanders on Saturday, a surprising move considering his pedigree as the 16th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Forbes had a rocky tenure with Washington, starting in seven games across two seasons. However, his opportunities were limited in 2024, with just one start and extended periods spent on the bench. Injuries also plagued his time with the Commanders, hindering his ability to make a consistent impact. Despite these setbacks, the Rams are optimistic about his potential, particularly given his reputation as a dynamic playmaker during his collegiate career at Mississippi State.

During his time at Mississippi State, Forbes emerged as one of the most accomplished defensive backs in college football. He set an NCAA Division I record with six pick-sixes and recorded 14 pass deflections over his college career. These standout performances solidified his status as a first-round pick and drew the attention of NFL scouts, including those from the Rams organization.

Coach Sean McVay expressed enthusiasm for adding Forbes to the roster, highlighting the cornerback’s unique skill set and tenacity. “Emmanuel is a player we’ve admired for a long time,” McVay remarked. “We evaluated him extensively during his time at Mississippi State and saw flashes of his potential in his limited opportunities with Washington. His ball skills, versatility, and competitive nature make him an exciting addition to our team.”

Forbes is now under contract with the Rams through the 2026 season, with the organization holding an option for a fifth year in 2027. This structure gives the Rams ample time to evaluate his development and determine his long-term fit within their defensive scheme. His addition not only bolsters the team’s depth at cornerback but also introduces a player with the potential to be a significant playmaker in their secondary.

In his brief NFL career so far, Forbes has logged two interceptions and 45 tackles. While these numbers may seem modest, they reflect his limited playing time rather than a lack of ability. With the Rams, he has an opportunity to start fresh and contribute meaningfully to a defense that aims to stifle opposing offenses. Staying healthy and continuing to refine his game will be critical for Forbes as he transitions to his new team.

The Rams’ decision to claim Forbes off waivers underscores their commitment to strengthening their defensive unit. Adding a young and talented player like Forbes aligns with the team’s vision of building a dynamic, opportunistic defense capable of competing at a high level. If Forbes can tap into the potential he displayed in college and translate it to the NFL stage, he could become a cornerstone of the Rams’ secondary for years to come.

As the Rams gear up for the remainder of the season, Forbes represents both a calculated risk and a promising opportunity. His arrival adds depth, competition, and a fresh dynamic to a defense eager to make its mark. All eyes will be on Forbes to see how he adjusts to his new surroundings and whether he can fulfill the lofty expectations that once made him a first-round pick.