The Washington Commanders made the decision to release Emmanuel Forbes, a first-round draft pick from 2023, on Saturday, marking another departure of a high-profile selection from the previous coaching staff.
The Commanders have completely moved on from former head coach Ron Rivera’s first-round choices, which include edge rusher Chase Young (2020), linebacker Jamin Davis (2021), and wide receiver Jahan Dotson (2022).
Forbes struggled to make an impact under the new head coach, Dan Quinn, remaining a healthy scratch in two games this season and not participating in two others while still in uniform at 23 years old.

There is uncertainty surrounding the implications of Forbes’ release on the status of cornerback Marshon Lattimore. Lattimore was acquired by the Commanders just before the trade deadline in early November but has yet to take the field due to a hamstring injury. He is considered doubtful for Washington’s upcoming home game against Tennessee.

In other roster news, the Commanders (7-5) placed running back Austin Ekeler on injured reserve due to a concussion and elevated kicker Zane Gonzalez along with defensive tackle Carl Davis from the practice squad as they prepare to take on the Titans (3-8).

The Commanders have been in a downward spiral, losing their last three games and sliding from first place in the NFC East down to a wild-card position. Their most recent defeat against division rival Dallas was particularly disheartening, as kicker Austin Seibert missed a critical extra point that would have tied the game with just 21 seconds remaining.

Seibert has also been placed on injured reserve earlier this week due to a groin injury he reported, which has compounded the team’s challenges as they await their delayed bye week.
The selection of Forbes has come under scrutiny since Rivera’s front office opted for the 166-pound defensive back from Mississippi State with the 16th overall pick, especially as other players like Christian Gonzalez, who went to New England and has started all 16 games for the Patriots, were available.

Forbes found himself benched last season under Rivera’s management, who had previously been criticized for selecting Davis over offensive lineman Christian Darrisaw in 2021, as well as choosing Dotson instead of notable talents like safety Kyle Hamilton or receiver Chris Olave the following year. In total, Forbes accumulated two interceptions and 12 passes defensed over 20 games played.