The Washington Commanders selected cornerback Emmanuel Forbes in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft partly because of his ability to create turnovers. Washington’s defense was good in 2022 but struggled to consistently create turnovers.
In three seasons at Mississippi State, Forbes had 14 interceptions, six of which he returned for touchdowns — an FBS record.
Can Forbes consistently create turnovers at the NFL level?
If Forbes repeats his college success as a rookie in 2023, he could be Washington’s second defensive rookie of the year in the last four seasons. Defensive end Chase Young won the award in 2020.
According to CBS Sports, Forbes is named as the “best top bet” at 15-1 to win the NFL defensive rookie of the year award.
Very tough DROY class and the market reflects it. Forbes is the pick here because he has very elite ball skills plus very, VERY elite “take the ball to the house” skills (six in a season for Mississippi State). If you want to back a defensive back for this award, you back one who can house a few turnovers. The Washington defense is good enough not to lean on him, which means he could end up having even more opportunities for big plays.
This is a good class of rookie defenders. Clearly, CBS believes Forbes’ ball skills will translate immediately to the next level.
Through two weeks of training camp, Forbes has been extremely impressive. And playing behind Washington’s elite defensive line could lead to more opportunities for Forbes, as opposing quarterbacks will be under constant duress.
If Forbes can remain healthy, he’s an excellent bet for immediate success.