Los Angeles Rams Claim Former First-Round Pick Emmanuel Forbes Jr. Off Waivers
The Los Angeles Rams are making moves, and their latest acquisition has the NFL world buzzing. On Monday, head coach Sean McVay confirmed that the Rams have claimed cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. off waivers from the Washington Commanders. This move comes just days after Forbes, the No. 16 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, was released by Washington on Saturday.
Forbes’ journey in the NFL so far has been anything but smooth. Drafted by the Commanders’ previous front office and coaching staff, Forbes was seen as a ball-hawking playmaker coming out of Mississippi State. His college resume was nothing short of spectacular, with 14 career interceptions, including a Division I record six returned for touchdowns. That kind of production had scouts drooling, and Washington believed they had found a game-changer in the secondary.
But the transition to the pros hasn’t been easy for Forbes. In two seasons with the Commanders, he started just seven games, with only one start in 2024. Injuries and inconsistent play led to him being benched in both seasons, and ultimately, Washington decided to move on. Despite the struggles, the Rams see potential in the young cornerback, and McVay made it clear that Forbes was a player they had their eyes on even before the draft.
Why the Rams Took a Chance on Forbes
McVay spoke highly of Forbes during Monday’s announcement, emphasizing the traits that made him a first-round pick in the first place. “He was a guy that we liked and had a familiarity with just based on the evaluation coming out of Mississippi State,” McVay said. “And then I thought there was some good tape that he’s put out there when we’ve gone against them, particularly later in the year last year.”
McVay also praised Forbes’ ball production, versatility, and “competitive toughness on the edge,” as well as his good ball skills. It’s clear the Rams believe they can tap into the potential that made Forbes such a highly touted prospect just two years ago.
What Forbes Brings to the Rams
Forbes is under contract through 2026, with a fifth-year option available in 2027. In his two seasons in the NFL, he has recorded two interceptions and 45 tackles in 20 games. While those numbers don’t jump off the page, the Rams are betting that a change of scenery and a fresh start in Los Angeles could help Forbes rediscover the form that made him a star at Mississippi State.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Forbes’ career so far:
- Drafted: No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders
- College Stats: 14 interceptions, including six returned for touchdowns (Division I record)
- NFL Stats: 20 games played, 7 starts, 2 interceptions, 45 tackles
- Contract: Signed through 2026, with a fifth-year option in 2027
Forbes’ ability to take the ball away was a major selling point during the draft process, and the Rams are hoping he can bring that same playmaking ability to their defense. With the Rams currently in a rebuilding phase, taking a low-risk, high-reward chance on a young player like Forbes makes a lot of sense.
What’s Next for Forbes and the Rams?
Forbes will now have the opportunity to prove himself in Los Angeles, and the Rams will be looking to integrate him into their defensive scheme. While it’s unclear what role he’ll play right away, McVay’s comments suggest the team sees him as a valuable piece moving forward. If Forbes can stay healthy and regain his confidence, he could become a key contributor for the Rams in the coming years.
For the Commanders, the decision to cut ties with Forbes marks the end of a disappointing chapter. Drafting a player in the first round is always a significant investment, and it’s never easy to admit when things don’t work out. But for the Rams, this is a chance to capitalize on someone else’s misstep and potentially strike gold with a player who still has plenty of upside.
Only time will tell if this move pays off for Los Angeles, but one thing is certain: Emmanuel Forbes Jr. is getting a second chance, and the Rams are giving him the platform to make the most of it.
Originally Written by: John Keim
