The Los Angeles Rams faced a challenge when cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon was sidelined for two months due to a broken collarbone. This injury raised questions about how the team would cope defensively, particularly at the cornerback position, which was already seen as a weak point. Rather than seeking a trade to fill the gap, the Rams decided to stick with their current roster, including Emmanuel Forbes.
Emmanuel Forbes: A Turnaround Story
Emmanuel Forbes, initially picked in the first round, experienced a rocky start with the Rams. After the season’s first four weeks, he stood 67th among 74 qualifying cornerbacks in coverage, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). He allowed an average of 16.5 yards per reception, one of the top figures in the league, along with a near-perfect passer rating of 158.3 when targeted.
Struggles and Growth
Forbes also faced high missed tackle rates, which placed him among the bottom performers. Despite these setbacks, he displayed moments of resilience, such as bouncing back after allowing a significant play against the Tennessee Titans by successfully breaking up the next pass attempt.
His prior performance under the Washington Commanders may have taken a toll on his confidence. Forbes had been drafted for a specific off-coverage role but was asked to adapt to a scheme that didn’t suit his strengths. This mismatch likely contributed to the Commanders deciding to move on from him.
Rams’ Coaching Impact
The Rams recognized Forbes’ potential and have worked on rebuilding his confidence and skills. The Rams’ 3-4 defensive scheme allows cornerbacks to avoid heavy press coverage, fitting Forbes’ strengths better and letting him utilize his ball skills effectively.
- Forbes excelled with two interceptions this season, matching his total from his first two years combined.
- He helped elevate the Rams’ pass defense to the second-best in the league based on expected points added (EPA) per dropback.
Performance Metrics
From Weeks 6 to 11, Forbes ranked as the seventh-highest graded cornerback in coverage via PFF. He achieved an outstanding passer rating of 33.7 when targeted, among the top in the league.
| Statistic | Ranking/Value |
|---|---|
| Passer Rating Allowed | 33.7 |
| Pass Breakups | 3 |
| Forced Incompletion Rate | 17% |
Looking Ahead
Forbes has shown promising growth, particularly against tougher opponents. In matchups against elite wide receivers, he has proven his ability to perform effectively. With Witherspoon’s eventual return, the Rams could establish a formidable cornerback duo, strengthening their defense even further.
The Rams’ successful reclamation projects highlight their capability in nurturing talent. With Forbes emerging as a vital player, his future looks bright as he continues to build confidence and adapt to the demands of his position.
