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No player in FBS college football history has more interceptions returned for touchdowns than former Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes. Forbes had 14 interceptions in three collegiate seasons, returning six for touchdowns.
The Washington Commanders were so enamored with Forbes that they selected him at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL draft and considered moving up to select Forbes.
Could Forbes parlay that collegiate success into a successful rookie season? And, if so, what’s his ceiling for 2023? If Forbes does produce as a rookie, could he be a contender for NFL defensive rookie of the Year?
CBS Sports recently named eight rookies who could win the NFL defensive rookie of the year award — Forbes was not on the list.
The cornerback selected below Forbes, Christian Gonzalez, came in at No. 1 on the list. Like any list, this is subjective, but how can you not watch Forbes’ college tape and see a player who could change games as a rookie?
Another cornerback drafted below Forbes — Joey Porter Jr. in the second round — came in at No. 3.
For a cornerback to win DROY, he needs interceptions. Porter had one interception in four college seasons. Gonzalez had four, all of which came in 2022.
Let us remind you again, Forbes had 14 in three seasons — playing in the SEC.
Whether Forbes makes the top eight of a subjective list or wins a rookie of the year award, the Commanders couldn’t be happier to have landed Forbes.