Emmanuel Forbes, the 2023 first-round pick, was recently claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Rams after a rocky start to his NFL career with Washington Commanders. Despite being the 16th overall pick, Forbes has struggled to make an impact, but the Rams are hopeful he’ll strengthen their secondary. With a crucial game against the 10-2 Buffalo Bills on the horizon, the Rams, fresh off a win in New Orleans, are eager to build on their momentum.

Rams fans were buzzing with excitement after the team claimed 2023 first-round cornerback  Forbes off waivers this week. Despite struggling in his early NFL career, Forbes, the 16th overall pick in the 2023 draft, still has time to develop.

However, that excitement quickly turned to concern after the Rams shared a video of Forbes at his first practice with the team on X. Fans couldn’t help but notice Forbes’ noticeably thin frame, with many commenting on how “scrawny” he appeared.

One fan posted, “He looks too skinny for the NFL,” while another questioned, “Is he ready for the physicality of the league?” As Forbes continues to work on his game, Rams supporters are hoping he can bulk up and prove his worth.

 “He looks too thin for the NFL,” one fan posted after seeing him on video. Head coach Sean McVay acknowledged the challenge of facing MVP candidate Josh Allen and emphasized the importance of solid defense. While Forbes is still adjusting to the Rams’ defensive schemes, he’s eager to contribute. “I’m ready to adapt,” Forbes said about his new role.

As the Rams prepare for the Bills on Sunday, the focus will be on defensive strategies to handle Allen’s dynamic play. Forbes may not see much action immediately, but his integration into the system will be key as the season progresses. “I’m here to learn and make an impact,” the 23-year-old added, showing optimism for his future with the Rams.

Emmanuel Forbes joins the Rams with high hopes

Emmanuel Forbes Jr., the 16th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, is embracing a clean slate after being released by the Washington Commanders. Despite flashing promise at Mississippi State, where he set an FBS record with six pick-sixes, Forbes struggled to find his footing in Washington. New head coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters’ shift in direction made Forbes the latest first-rounder from the old regime to be shown the door.

“It’s a part of business,” Forbes reflected. “I wish it didn’t happen like that, but it did. I have a fresh start here, and I’m ready to take advantage of it.”

Now with the Los Angeles Rams, Forbes finds himself in a secondary led by Darious Williams and Cobie Durant, the latter calling Forbes “a straight-up dog” with the work ethic to thrive. Head coach Sean McVay echoed the optimism, praising Forbes’ “ball production, versatility, and competitive toughness.”

Though Forbes won’t suit up against Buffalo this week, he’s already immersing himself in the Rams’ system under assistant coach Aubrey Pleasant. “No pressure,” McVay emphasized.