A Cornerback on the Rise
Emmanuel Forbes, the former first-round pick of the Washington Commanders, is carving out a promising path with the Los Angeles Rams as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. After a challenging start to his career, Forbes’ development during the 2025 offseason, particularly during Organized Team Activities (OTAs), signals a potential breakout year. His integration into the Rams’ defensive scheme, physical tools, and coaching support are key factors in his growth, positioning him as a critical piece in addressing the team’s secondary concerns.
A Rocky Start and a Fresh Opportunity
Selected 16th overall by Washington in 2023, Forbes struggled to meet expectations. His rookie season was marked by inconsistent playing time, often benched for weeks, and his role remained undefined into 2024. The Commanders released him in December 2024, a surprising move for a player with his draft pedigree. The Rams claimed Forbes off waivers, seeing untapped potential in his 6-foot, 180-pound frame, elite length, and ball skills.
Emmanuel Forbes draws a lot of criticism for his small stature
— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) August 22, 2023
But he’s NOT afraid to stick his nose in there and make a play. pic.twitter.com/pevmBJH2N2
Forbes’ initial stint with the Rams was limited. Joining late in the season, he didn’t play defensively until Week 18 against the Seattle Seahawks, when starters rested. His performance in that game, though brief, showcased his ability to track receivers and disrupt passes, earning praise from head coach Sean McVay. “I was really impressed with the way that he came in,” McVay said, noting Forbes’ coachability and positive demeanor despite the midseason transition.
Offseason Growth: Mastering the Rams’ System
The 2025 offseason has been a turning point for Forbes. Unlike his late arrival in 2024, he’s had a full offseason to immerse himself in the Rams’ defensive system under coordinator Chris Shula. Working closely with defensive backs coach Aubrey Pleasant and safeties coach Chris Beake, Forbes has focused on adapting to the Rams’ techniques and terminology, which differ significantly from Washington’s scheme.
“Technique is different on every team,” Forbes explained during OTAs. “The technique that they want to be done on certain plays and certain situations, and just getting to know your coaches better and what they want to be done.” His dedication to learning the “ins and outs” of the defense has allowed him to play faster and smarter, as evidenced by a standout interception during the first 11-on-11 drills of OTAs on May 28, 2025. Tracking a receiver along the left sideline, Forbes made a fluid turn and leaped to secure the pick, a play that drew attention from coaches and teammates.
Forbes split his offseason between training in Arizona and working at the Rams’ new Woodland Hills facility. His time with Pleasant and Beake emphasized footwork, coverage alignments, and situational awareness—areas where he struggled in Washington. McVay has noted visible progress: “You see the ability. In some of the individual drills, the movements, the ability to get in and out of breaks and the length and the ball skills to be able to pick the ball off, those are big deals.”
Fitting into the Rams’ Defensive Strategy
The Rams’ defensive strategy for 2025, centered on an elite pass rush to mask secondary weaknesses, aligns well with Forbes’ skill set. With Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, Kobie Turner, and newcomer Poona Ford generating pressure, the secondary can focus on preventing big plays. Forbes’ length and ball-hawking ability—he had 11 interceptions at Mississippi State—make him a natural fit for Shula’s scheme, which often employs zone coverages and nickel packages.
Just here to remind you that Emmanuel Forbes has a 79” wingspan. pic.twitter.com/DdBxmlm7s7
— Josh Taylor (@JoshTaylorFB) April 28, 2023
The Rams’ secondary was a weak point in 2024, ranking 19th in pass defense success rate. Forbes, alongside Darious Williams, Ahkello Witherspoon, and returning Derion Kendrick (recovering from a 2024 ACL tear), is part of a revamp effort. His OTA performance, including a matchup against star wide receiver Davante Adams, suggests he could compete for a starting role opposite Williams. Social media buzz on X reflects growing optimism, with fans calling Forbes a “sleeper” who could “steal the CB1 spot” if he sustains his development.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Despite his progress, Forbes faces hurdles:
- Physicality and Run Support: At 180 pounds, Forbes has been criticized for shying away from contact. Improving his tackling and willingness to engage in run defense is crucial, especially against physical NFC West offenses like the San Francisco 49ers.
- Consistency: His inconsistent play in Washington raises questions about his ability to perform week-to-week. The Rams’ coaching staff is working to build his confidence and decision-making under pressure.
- Competition: The potential return of Jalen Ramsey via trade could reshape the cornerback room. While Ramsey’s hybrid role might complement Forbes, it could also limit his snaps if he doesn’t secure a starting spot.
Emmanuel Forbes Highlights
Coaching and Support System
Forbes’ development is bolstered by a strong coaching staff. Aubrey Pleasant’s track record with young defensive backs, combined with Chris Beake’s focus on safety-corner synergy, provides tailored guidance. The addition of Jimmy Lake as a senior defensive assistant brings further expertise, while Drew Wilkins’ pass rush coordination ensures the front seven creates opportunities for Forbes to make plays. McVay’s emphasis on a positive team culture has also helped Forbes settle in, as seen in his “great demeanor” noted during OTAs.
Outlook for 2025
Forbes’ development trajectory suggests he could be a breakout candidate in 2025. His OTA interception and growing comfort in the Rams’ system indicate a player ready to move beyond his Washington struggles. Analysts, including The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue, project Forbes as a potential CB2 with CB1 upside if he refines his technique and physicality. Fan sentiment on Reddit is cautiously optimistic, with some calling him “the steal of the 2024 waiver wire.”Forbes’ development trajectory suggests he could be a breakout candidate in 2025. His OTA interception and growing comfort in the Rams’ system indicate a player ready to move beyond his Washington struggles.
For more news and discussion on the Los Angeles Rams, please visit The Rams Forum – On X @RamsFansForum