The Washington Commanders parted ways with former first-round draft pick Emmanuel Forbes in December 2024, marking the end of a disappointing chapter in his career. Forbes, who struggled to find his footing during his time in Washington, has since joined the Los Angeles Rams and is currently experiencing a resurgence in the 2025 season.
After playing only two games for the Rams in 2024, Forbes has emerged as a key contributor in the current season. In 11 games, including eight starts, he has allowed a completion rate of 63.2% and a passer rating of 84.9. According to Pro Football Focus, his 62.7 coverage grade ranks 51st out of 109 cornerbacks, marking the highest rating of his career.
Forbes has recorded three interceptions and 13 passes defensed this season, both of which are career highs. His standout performance came during a Week 12 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In that game, he achieved a personal best with five passes defensed and notably did not allow a single reception despite being targeted seven times. This feat is significant, as it marks the first time since Week 12 of 2022 that a defender has been targeted that many times without conceding a catch.
According to Next Gen Stats, “Emmanuel Forbes faced seven targets and did not allow a single reception against the Buccaneers. No defender since Week 12, 2022 has been targeted more times without allowing a catch.” This impressive statistic highlights Forbes’ transformation and adaptability.
The decision by the Commanders to release Forbes has been met with some criticism, as many speculate they may have given up on him too soon. His early struggles in Washington were evident, making his current success somewhat unexpected. It is still early in the season, and while Forbes is on a promising path, the challenge remains for him to sustain this level of performance moving forward.
The narrative surrounding Forbes serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports. As he continues to develop with the Rams, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can maintain his current trajectory and solidify his place in the league.
As the 2025 season unfolds, Forbes’ story is one of redemption and perseverance, showcasing the potential for growth even after setbacks.
