One of the early highlights of Washington Commanders training camp was rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes’ interception during Saturday’s practice. Forbes was matched up with star wide receiver Terry McLaurin and undercut an ill-advised Sam Howell pass, picking it off and returning for a would-be interception [if it were a game.]
The play highlighted Forbes’ ability to take the ball away, which is one of the reasons why Washington drafted him No. 16 overall. Forbes is always around the football.
Throughout the first week of camp, Forbes has often been tasked with defending McLaurin — one of the NFL’s best wide receivers. McLaurin has won most of the battles, but it’s been the perfect experience for Forbes as he prepares for his first NFL season.
Forbes was recently asked what it was like defending McLaurin.
“Well, you know Terry, he’s one of the top receivers in the NFL,” Forbes said last week. “He just going out there making me better each day, each and every day, and making him better each and every day we compete.”
What makes McLaurin so special?
“Terry, he just knows and understands routes and like stems and things like that,” Forbes continued. “He knows how to use his eyes well. So, I would say he has a big catch radius, and he’s really good at what he do.”
Going against McLaurin has been a great learning experience for Forbes. He's making Forbes better and vice versa. Forbes called McLaurin one of the best receivers in the league and really understands round concepts #HTTC
— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) July 27, 2023
The experience has been perfect for Forbes. When the Commanders open the season in September, Forbes will be better because of his time working with McLaurin this summer.