Emmanuel Forbes Jr.’s tenure with the Washington Commanders appears to be on life support, as the former first-round pick’s struggles have left him on the fringes of the team’s plans.
The decision to make him a healthy scratch in Week 12 against the Dallas Cowboys, even with key cornerback Marshon Lattimore unavailable, underscores just how far Forbes has fallen out of favor under general manager Adam Peters and the new regime.
### **What Went Wrong for Forbes?**
1. **Performance Issues**: Forbes has struggled to adjust to the NFL’s physical demands. His lack of size, poor tackling, and inconsistency in coverage have made him a liability on defense.
The coaching staff’s lack of trust in his abilities is evident, as he has played just eight defensive snaps over the last four games.
2. **Draft-Day Regret**: The decision to select Forbes over Christian Gonzalez in the 2023 NFL Draft looms large. Gonzalez has quickly established himself as a rising star in New England, making Forbes’ selection look like a significant misstep by the previous regime under Ron Rivera.
3. **Failed Development**: Forbes entered the league as a ballhawk with immense potential, but he has failed to develop the physicality and technique necessary to succeed against NFL competition. His struggles in run support and his inability to capitalize on his playmaking skills have further diminished his value.
### **The New Regime’s Approach**
Peters has not hesitated to move on from Rivera’s picks, as seen with the trade of Jahan Dotson and the release of Jamin Davis. Forbes seems to be heading down the same path, with the team reportedly exploring trade options before the deadline. When no suitors emerged, Forbes’ fate as a likely offseason cut became apparent.
### **What’s Next for Forbes?**
Forbes’ future in Washington is bleak, and a release next spring appears increasingly likely. While this would come with dead-cap implications, Peters seems more focused on reshaping the roster with players that fit the new vision.
Forbes’ best hope is a fresh start with another team willing to take a chance on his potential, though his draft pedigree won’t carry as much weight after two underwhelming seasons.
### **Missed Opportunity**
The Commanders’ decision to draft Forbes reflects the costly missteps of the previous regime. Selecting Gonzalez or addressing other pressing needs could have significantly altered the team’s trajectory. Instead, Forbes’ selection remains a symbol of wasted potential and poor evaluation.
### **Conclusion**
While Emmanuel Forbes Jr. arrived in Washington with high expectations, his inability to adjust to the NFL and his lack of trust from the new regime have left his future with the team hanging by a thread. The Commanders are moving forward decisively, and it’s clear Forbes is not part of their long-term plans.
