The Washington Commanders waived the white flag on their 2023 first-round pick late last week, releasing the 23-year-old Emmanuel Forbes.
A former 16th overall pick, Forbes appeared in just 20 games (seven starts) over the past two seasons, recording 45 tackles (37 solo), 12 passes defensed, and two interceptions. He earned a Pro Football Focus grade of 50.9 as a rookie but a grade of just 35.4 this year.
Forbes has struggled to make the NFL transition and his time in Washington proves that. He’s been poor in coverage and even worse as a tackler, which likely has to do with his size (6-foot, 180 pounds).
But should the New York Giants still be interested?
Perhaps a fresh start in a new location is what Forbes needs, and the Giants certainly have holes at cornerback. Deonte Banks has underwhelmed and there’s little outside depth beyond him.
Rookie Andru Phillips has flashed inside, while Cor’Dale Flott has held his own in an unexpected role. Veteran Adoree’ Jackson appears to have little left in the tank.
The Giants need bodies at the position and should Forbes clear waivers on Monday at 4:00 p.m. ET, he could become an intriguing low-cost option.
If the team can bring Forbes in on a league-minimum deal, they could evaluate him over the final five weeks of the season to determine if he’s worthy of a new contract or even a reserve/futures deal.
General manager Joe Schoen hasn’t made many solid personnel decisions but kicking the tires on Forbes at a minimal price seems like a low-cost, potentially high-reward style signing.
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