No defensive player in the 2023 NFL draft produced more highlight-reel plays than the No. 16 overall pick, Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes.
The Washington Commanders agreed, selecting Forbes over Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez, who many believed to be the top-ranked cornerback in the draft.
For the Commanders, there was never a doubt. In a video of head coach Ron Rivera on the morning of the first round, Rivera mentioned Forbes specifically because he was a playmaker and would bring an element to Washington’s defense it has lacked in years — the ability to take the ball away from the other team.
Forbes finished his college career with 14 interceptions, six of which he returned for touchdowns — an FBS record.
The biggest knock on Forbes was his weight. That’s not something he’s concerned about; neither are the Commanders. Forbes didn’t miss one game due to injury at Mississippi State — in the rugged SEC.
Buckle up and enjoy some of Forbes’ top plays from his time in Starkville.
Check out Forbes in run support, too.
Lots of Forbes in this game vs. Kentucky. There is one impressive play around the 4:05 mark where Forbes is playing press and forces the inside release, immediately gaining an advantage. Forbes responds by tipping the ball into the hands of one of his teammates for an interception, preventing a touchdown.