One 2023 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate from each division
By Dave Adams
NFC East: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Washington Commanders – Round 1, Pick 16
One of the most fascinating picks in the 2023 NFL Draft is the tall (6’1″), thin (166 lbs.), and fast (4.35 40) CB Emmanuel Forbes out of Mississippi State.
In his three seasons with the Bulldogs, Forbes was a human highlight film with 14 interceptions, six returned for touchdowns. By comparison, Deion Sanders also had 14 interceptions but three interceptions returned for touchdowns in four seasons – one more season for Deion and three fewer defensive touchdowns.
I’m not predicting a Deion-like career for the rail-thin Forbes, but with his skill set combined with that rare productivity on defense, he’s a young player with exciting potential.
Forbes also showed toughness in college. While you don’t necessarily want your 166 lb. cornerback highly involved in defending the run, Forbes wasn’t afraid to mix it up against the ground game at MSU, finishing with 94 solo tackles in his three collegiate seasons.
With the Commanders ranking a respectable 12th in sacks (43), there should be enough hurried throws coming Forbes’ direction to allow him to continue adding to his highlight film.