The NFL can be a harsh proving ground, especially for rookie cornerbacks thrown into the fire against seasoned veterans. In Week 3 of the 2023 season, the Washington Commanders’ first-round draft pick, Emmanuel Forbes, found himself on that very stage, matched up against the Philadelphia Eagles’ star wide receiver, A.J. Brown. While Forbes had shown flashes of brilliance in previous games, this matchup proved to be a trial by fire, exposing both his potential and the areas where he needs to grow.
This wasn’t just any other game; it was a divisional clash with playoff implications hanging in the balance. For Forbes, it was a chance to showcase his skills against one of the league’s most physically imposing receivers.
The Matchup: Speed vs. Strength
The decision to pit Forbes against Brown was a calculated gamble by the Commanders’ coaching staff. Forbes, known for his speed and ball-hawking instincts, presented a different challenge than the more physically imposing corners Brown was accustomed to facing.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24971274/usa_today_21231505.jpg)
In the early stages of the game, Forbes’ speed and agility seemed to give Brown some trouble. He stayed glued to Brown on several routes, preventing the big receiver from gaining separation.
One particular play showcased Forbes’ potential. Brown, lined up on the right side of the formation, attempted to shake Forbes with a quick out route.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24971275/usa_today_21231506.jpg)
Forbes, anticipating the move, seamlessly transitioned his hips, mirroring Brown’s every step. The result was a tightly contested play where Brown had no room to make a catch.
Later in the first half, Forbes made another impressive play, breaking up a pass intended for Brown on a deep curl route.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24971276/usa_today_21231507.jpg)
Forbes’ ability to read the play, combined with his exceptional closing speed, allowed him to disrupt the pass at the last moment.
The Turning Point: Experience Trumps Youth
However, as the game progressed, the Eagles began to exploit Forbes’ aggressiveness. They recognized his eagerness to make plays on the ball and used it against him, drawing him in with double moves and subtle shifts in route running.
Brown, with his veteran savvy and physicality, began to create separation, hauling in two touchdowns, including a back-breaking score in the fourth quarter.
While Forbes’ struggles were evident, it’s important to remember that this was just his third game in the NFL. The lessons learned from this matchup, as difficult as they were, are invaluable for a young player’s development.
The Takeaway: A Learning Experience
The NFL is a league of adjustments. For Emmanuel Forbes to reach his full potential, he’ll need to learn from his encounters with receivers like A.J. Brown. This game, while a difficult one for the young cornerback, will undoubtedly serve as a valuable learning experience as he continues to develop his skills and adapt to the intricacies of playing cornerback at the highest level.
